What does a composite restoration rely on instead of a dovetail?

• A. Beveling
• B. Pins
• C. Resin cement
• D. Bonding

Answer: (D)

Composite restorations rely on adhesive bonding to tooth structure rather than mechanical undercuts like a dovetail. By etching enamel and dentin and applying a bonding agent, the composite forms a micromechanical and chemical bond to both surfaces, creating a strong, sealed interface that provides retention and resists dislodgement under chewing forces. A dovetail is a feature used with amalgam to achieve mechanical retention, which isn’t the mechanism composites depend on. Beveling can aid aesthetics and marginal adaptation, but the primary retention comes from bonding. Pins are a historical retention method in some cases, and resin cement is typically used for luting indirect restorations, not for direct bonded composites.