C-factor is more than the ratio of bonded to unbonded surfaces. Understanding C-factor, or Configuration Factor, is essential to understanding how composites behave in a tooth, but this topic was still being researched as manufacturers were trying to bond to dentin. Eventually, c-factor and its role in composite bonding showed the potential for a strong bond to dentin, but overcoming the c-factor stresses was the key element  that Dr. David Alleman studied in his search for predictable adhesive dentistry.Articles referenced in this episode:Cho BH. Effect of interfacial bond quality on the direction of polymerization shrinkage flow in resin composite restorations. Oper. Dent. 2002;27:297-304.Alleman DS. The protocols of biomimetic restorative dentistry: 2002 to 2017. Inside Dent. 2017;June 64-73.Nakajima M. Bonding to caries-affected dentin using self-etching primers. Am. J. Dent. 1999;12(6)309-314Nikaido T. Evaluation of thermal cycling and mechanical loading on bond strength of self-etching primer system to dentin. Dent. Mater. 2002;18 269-275.Fusayama  T. Clinical guide for removing caries using a caries-detecting solution. Quintessence Int. 1988;19(6)397-401.Deliperi S. An alternative method to reduce polymerization shrinkage in direct posterior composite restorations. J. Am. Dent. Assoc. 2002;133 1387-1398.Learn more about Dr. Alleman's work at training programs at allemancenter.com.Instagram @david.alleman.dds@davey_alleman_dmd@allemancenter.comYouTube@allemancenter