The influence of light exposure on polymerization of dual-cure resin cements

This study investigated the degree of monomer conversion of four commercial dual-cure resin cements. The products were subjected to various postmix treatments: no light exposure, a 60-second exposure through Mylar only, and either a 20-second or 60-second exposure through an overlying cured wafer of composite 1.5 mm thick. The infrared spectrum of the treated specimens was recorded at specified times postmix for each cure treatment: 2, 5, 10, 30, and 60 minutes as well as after 24 hours. The degree of cure was then determined from the infrared spectra. The results demonstrate a wide range of potential cures among the various brands. Regardless of brand, the chemical component of cure was always lower than when the specimens were exposed to any lighting condition. For most resin systems tested, the cure observed 10 minutes postmix was almost equivalent to the cure after 24 hours. Despite manufacturers' claims, there is no evidence for a substantial chemically induced polymerization of dual-cure resins that occurs after light exposure is completed.