The present invention provides a dental composite which has the high strength required for load bearing restorations, yet maintains a glossy appearance, even after substantial wear. Through the use of particles having a mean particle size between about 0.05 mu m and about 0.50 mu m, the composite is useful in stress bearing restorations and in cosmetic restorations. The structural filler used is typically ground to a mean particle size of less than 0.5 mu m and also includes a microfill having a mean particle size less than 0.05 mu m to improve handling and mechanical characteristics. The preferred dental composites maintain their surface finish even after substantial use and also have the strength properties of hybrid composite resins. The structural filler is ground, typically by agitator milling, to the preferred particle size.
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