Self-cured restoratives represent the first generation of resin-based composite
restorative materials. In spite of strong competition from the newer light-cured
restoratives, they still enjoy a substantial share of the market. As they have
several unique characteristics, it is unlikely that they will ever be entirely replaced
by their light-cured counterparts. They are still the materials of choice in situations
of restricted light accessibility and in making dark or deep restorations, and
eliminate the dependence on the performance of curing instruments. The cost per
restoration is also significantly lower than that of light-cured materials. Self-cured restoratives maintain a strong market position in countries where the cost of curing instruments and the price of materials are of major concern in considering the type
of restorative used. Self-cured restoratives are also used for field applications in
areas where electric power is not available.

Self-cured restoratives’ sensitivity to storage conditions and particularly to elevated
temperatures should be taken into account. Part B components are especially
temperature sensitive and require cold storage. This problem is alleviated to a large
degree, however, when paste/liquid-type restoratives are used, as these materials offer greater resistance to elevated temperatures. Scientific Pharmaceuticals’ self-cured
composite restorative materials feature high mechanical strength, low polymerization shrinkage, excellent color stability, very good x-ray opacity, low coefficient of thermal expansion, good aesthetics and ease of handling. These characteristics are the most
sought after in advanced polymeric composite restoratives.