Definitive restorations in the posterior region (back teeth) are made from precious metal alloys in form of gold inlays and non-metallic materials such as ceramic and composite. As composite is under enormous stress in the posterior region due to the chewing forces (unlike in the minimally loaded anterior region of the front teeth), they should not be used as long-term restorations. All other materials can only be classed as temporary restorative materials at this point. We do not usually use materials such as amalgam or composite in the posterior regions anymore due to health, aesthetic and mechanical reasons.
Amalgam restorations are replaced with porcelain (ceramic) restorations for some years now. When choosing the suitable material, it is important to consider the following points: the individual dentition, the general state of health, the aesthetic demands, the time required, as well as the finance etc.
Therefore, the use of composite in the area of the back teeth is limited to the smallest defects. The tooth is reconstructed with a time-consuming layering technique to a realistic image of the natural tooth. Different shades can be used for this.