Braden and his coauthors provide a comprehensive overview of the use of polymers and polymer composites as dental materials. These include polyelectrolyte-based materials, elastomers, glassy and crystalline polymers, and fibers. Such materials are utilized in dentistry as restorative materials, hard and soft prostheses, and impression materials. The chemistry of these materials is reviewed, along with their mechanical, thermal, visco-elastic, and water solution properties. These properties are linked to clinical performance, with an emphasis on some of the challenges involved in developing materials for oral use. Indications of possible future developments are also provided.