Since the modern patient demands a perfect smile it is of utmost importance that all clinical work in the anterior and posterior regions should be highly aesthetic.During this presentation, the focus will be on the concepts of “color” and “layering” of composite shades to achieve optimal, non-visible composite restorations in the anterior region. Important cavity preparation techniques, placement techniques and the use of separate Dentine and Enamel shades will be highlighted. Some comparative information on new generations of composites will be provided in order to assist the clinician in making an informed choice on which system might be best suited in the clinic. Many patients cannot afford porcelain inlays, onlays and crowns and the dentists are increasingly ‘forced’ to do large anterior aesthetic restorations. Modern patients also demand that these restorations should be aesthetic, non-visible and ‘perfect’. As will be discussed, fortunately, our modern materials and techniques make this possible.
