A clinical study was undertaken to determine the rate at which plaque accumulates on the surfaces of composite restorations on which four finishing techniques were used. Plaque on these surfaces was compared with that on control surfaces with polished metallic or glazed porcelain restorations, and unrestored enamel surfaces. Composite surfaces were covered with plaque after 24 hours regardless of the finishing technique used. Plaque did not collect on adjacent control teeth to this degree until the third day, although the diffence remained statistically significant. Surface discrepancies on the polished composites were shown in scanning electron micrographs and with laboratory measurements.