The clinical success of adhesive restorations depends on knowing the materials and how they are used in indicated areas. This article is designed to help clinicians understand the various protocols that are best suited for different clinical cases by discussing contemporary dental adhesive systems. The article also presents rationales for selecting adhesive systems for specific cavity classes, highlights the working principles underlying each clinical procedure, and explains technique problems in dental adhesive procedures. Clinical preventive measures to ensure longevity of direct adhesive restorations also are discussed.