What function does TEGDMA (triethylene glycol dimethacrylate) serve in composite materials?

TEGDMA, or triethylene glycol dimethacrylate, plays a significant role in composite materials primarily due to its ability to reduce viscosity. This characteristic is crucial in the formulation of dental composites, as it allows for better handling and manipulation during application. A lower viscosity enables the material to flow more easily, making it simpler to achieve the desired shape and to fill cavities effectively.

Additionally, TEGDMA helps enhance the material's workability, facilitating better adaptation to tooth surfaces and improving the overall aesthetic outcome of the restoration. While other components within a composite serve their unique purposes—such as fillers providing strength or photoinitiators enabling curing—TEGDMA's primary function is linked to managing the composite's consistency during use.