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 esthetics and ease of handling. These characteristics are the most sought after in advanced polymeric composite restoratives.