Consensus Statement printable version
Read the jcda.ca feature on the topic
When selecting a light curing unit (LCU)
Recognize that all lights are not created equal. Use a LCU from a manufacturer who provides contact information, a user manual, and service. Preferably the LCU should have received a favourable report or certification from a reputable independent 3rd party.
- Know the key performance parameters of your LCU, when new:
(i) the light output (averaged irradiance over the beam incident area in mW/cm2 and spectral output from the LCU), (ii) whether the beam has a uniform and effective output (profile) across the light tip, and (iii) the diameter of the light beam. - Be cautious when using high (above 1,500 to 2,000 mW/cm²) output LCUs that advocate very short (e.g., 1 to 5 seconds) exposure times. When used for such short times, it is critical that the light tip is stabilized over the resin during exposure. Although some resin composites are matched to specific high output curing lights, high output LCUs may not adequately cure all of today’s resin-composites to the anticipated depth when used for short exposure times. Seek peer-reviewed literature validating the efficacy and safety of such lights and materials.
Before you light cure, remember
- Regularly monitor and record the light output over time, with the same measurement device and light guide. Repair or replace the LCU when it no longer meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Inspect and clean the LCU before use to ensure it is on the correct setting, in good working order, and free of defects and debris.
- Consider that every resin-based material has a minimum amount of energy that must be provided at the correct wavelengths to achieve satisfactory results. [Energy (Joules/cm2) = output (W/cm2) x exposure time (seconds)]. However, minimum irradiation times are also required.
- Follow the light exposure times and increment thickness recommended by the resin manufacturer, making allowances if you use another manufacturer’s light. Increase your curing times for increased distances and darker or opaque shades.
- Select a LCU tip that delivers a uniform light output across the light tip and that covers as much of the restoration as possible. Cure each surface independently, using overlapping exposures if the light tip is smaller than the restoration.
- Position the light tip as close as possible (without touching) and parallel to the surface of the resin composite being cured.
- Stabilize and maintain the tip of the LCU over the resin composite throughout the exposure. Always use the appropriate “blue blocking” glasses or a shield to protect your eyes as you watch and control the position of the curing light.
Precautions
- Avoid conditions that will reduce light delivery to the resin-composite, e.g.,:
- Holding the light tip several millimetres away.
- Holding the light tip at an angle to the resin surface.
- Dirty or damaged light-guide optics.
- Supplementary light exposures should be considered under circumstances that may limit ideal light access, such as shadows from matrix bands, intervening tooth structure, or from restorative material.
- Beware of potential thermal damage to the pulp and soft tissues when delivering high energy exposures or long exposure times.
- Air-cool the tooth when exposing for longer times, or when using high output LCUs.
- Never shine the LCU into the eyes, and avoid looking at the reflected light, except through an appropriate ‘blue-blocking’ filter.
- Testing surface hardness of the resin-composite in the tooth using a dental explorer provides NO information about adequacy of curing depth.
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The wavelenght is very important !! Large Spectrum