Biocompatibility is the ability of a material to elicit a biological response, when applied to the body, without causing a chronic inflammatory reaction, foreign body reaction or toxicity, is related to the interaction of the cell or any biomaterial. A few materials are completely inert from the physiological point of view since, most of the components with a variety of potential toxicity. In addition, chemical reactions during cure of the material may also produce undesirable effects. In order to increase knowledge about the characteristics and properties of materials and their interaction with the biological environment, this study aimed, through literature review, guide and inform didactically professionals and academics on the importance of biocompatibility of restorative materials more direct use in dental practice: amalgam, composite resins and glass ionomer cements.