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Effectiveness of battery powered light activation units
1University of Birmingham, School of Dentistry, St Chad's, Queensway, Birmingham.
British Dental Journal
|August 9, 1997
Summary
Chargeable light curing units may lose radiant output over successive discharges, affecting resin composite depth of cure. Performance varies significantly between units, impacting clinical effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Dental materials science
- Photopolymerization technology
Background:
- Light curing units (LCUs) are essential for dental restorations.
- Battery-powered LCUs offer portability but may have variable performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of chargeable light curing units.
- To assess radiant output sustainability after discharge cycles.
Main Methods:
- Assessed output intensity and depth of cure for three battery-powered LCUs.
- Measured light intensity (mW/cm2) and depth of cure in resin composites.
Main Results:
- Two of three units showed diminished output intensity over discharge cycles.
- Depth of cure results paralleled output intensity findings.
- Significant variations observed in discharge cycle length and recharge times.
Conclusions:
- Some battery-powered LCUs experience output reduction during discharge.
- Unit performance, cost, and reliability are key selection factors.