The optimum curing cycle for a light- and heat-cured composite inlay material

The transverse bend test and surface microhardness test were used to determine the optimum curing cycle for a light- and heat-cured composite inlay material. Specimens were light-cured (control) and light- and heat-cured using the following temperatures: 50 degrees C for 5 min; 50 degrees C for 10 min; 100 degrees C for 1 min; 100 degrees C for 5 min; 100 degrees C for 10 min; and 100 degrees C for 15 min. Heat-curing in boiling water at 100 degrees C for at least 1 min significantly improved the transverse strength, modulus of elasticity and surface microhardness compared to light-curing only or at 50 degrees C. The curing cycle of 100 degrees C for 5 min is considered the most appropriate.