Temperature rise during photo-polymerization for onlay luting

(1) To measure the temperature rise during long-time irradiation needed to lute adhesive indirect restorations, with one halogen and five LED high-power lamps, in a simulated oral environment, and (2) to propose a technique to reduce heat.

Temperature within the pulp chamber of an extracted human molar in a 35 degrees C water bath, before and after restoration with a ceramic onlay, was continuously recorded during 3 x 120 seconds of irradiation for different curing regimens, with and without cooling by compressed air, water and water spray. Temperature rise in a thermo-insulated well was also measured during 120 seconds of irradiation with LEDemetron II and TuTu.

Maximal temperature rise of 6.2 degrees C/7.7 degrees C on intact/onlay restored tooth was found after 3 x 120 seconds of irradiation. Compressed air application reduced the temperature by 4 degrees C for LEDemetron II, while water spray increased the temperature by 15.1 degrees C for TuTu. Temperature decreased with irradiation distance, except for LEDemetron II. Air was heated up to 65 degrees C after 120 seconds of irradiation in an insulated well with TuTu.