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Minimal exposure time of different LED-curing devices
Anke Schattenberg1, Dana Lichtenberg, Elmar Stender
1Department of Operative Dentistry, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Augustusplatz 2, 55131 Mainz, Germany. schattan@uni-mainz.de
Summary
Dental LED curing devices can sufficiently polymerize resin composites in 20 seconds or less. This study tested various light-curing devices and five resin composites to determine optimal LED curing times for effective dental restorations.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Light-curing devices are essential for dental restorations.
- Optimizing LED curing time is crucial for effective polymerization and material longevity.
- Clinical simulation models are needed to evaluate real-world performance of dental materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the minimum effective exposure time for various LED curing devices.
- To evaluate the performance of five different resin composites under simulated clinical conditions.
- To establish clinically acceptable curing parameters for dental resin composites.
Main Methods:
- Five resin composites were tested in standardized molds.
- Samples were incrementally cured using seven different LED devices at a 7 mm distance.
- Bottom surface hardness was measured to assess polymerization depth and efficacy.
Main Results:
- Four LED curing devices achieved sufficient polymerization within manufacturer-recommended times (10-20s) for all composites.
- Two devices (Bluephase 16i, L.E. Demetron II) were only sufficient for one composite (QuiXfil) at recommended times.
- One device (FreeLight 2+) required 20s for one composite (Ceram X Mono).
Conclusions:
- All tested resin composites achieved sufficient polymerization with a maximum LED exposure time of 20 seconds.
- The study provides valuable data for selecting appropriate LED curing devices and optimizing protocols.
- Findings support the efficacy of modern LED curing technology in achieving complete resin composite polymerization.
