Which material has a monomer of Bis-GMA and fillers that increase strength but are harder to polish?

The choice of conventional composite is accurate because conventional composites are formulated with a base resin known as Bis-GMA (bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate) that serves as the monomer. This material combines with various fillers to enhance its strength and mechanical properties. The added fillers, which might include silica or other materials, improve the durability and load-bearing capacity of the composite, making it suitable for use in restorations that require strength.

However, the trade-off for this strength is often that these composites are more challenging to polish to a high gloss compared to other types of resins, such as microfill composites, which typically contain smaller particle sizes that facilitate easier polishing and provide a smoother finish. This characteristic makes conventional composites particularly effective for posterior restorations, where durability is essential.

In contrast, other options like silicate cement or acrylic resin do not primarily utilize Bis-GMA and vary in composition and application, so they do not fit the criteria established in the question.