Some factors influencing the depth of cure of visible light-activated composite resins

Some of the factors influencing the depth of cure of four composite resins of different composition were examined. Knoop hardness measurements were carried out at the surface and 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 mm below the surface to which the light was applied. The hardness of the composites decreased with increasing depth and shorter exposure times. The composites continued to polymerize after removal of the light source. Composition of the composite resin has a major effect on the surface hardness and depth of polymerization.