Since it was introduced into the oral medicine field, dental light cure composite resin has been favored for its excellent aesthetic and mechanical properties. As a curing light source, the correct and efficient application of dental curing light is the key factor affecting curing effect. If the binder and composite resin are not fully cured, it will lead to incomplete polymerization or transformation of the material and cause many adverse clinical consequences. Including:
1. Decreased bonding force -- decreased retention force;
2. Toxicity to dental pulp -- postoperative sensitivity;
3. Micro-leakage -- secondary caries;
4. Reduced physical properties -- increased chance of wear and tear.
Secondary caries and fracture are the two most common clinical manifestations of incomplete photocuring of composite resins.
What characteristics should an ideal dental curing light have?
1. Sufficient light intensity (more than 1,000 mW/cm2).
2. The light energy will not decrease dramatically due to the curing distance, which is particularly important when repairing the deep caries in the posterior teeth. That’s because when cure deep tooth cavity repair material, the light curing lamp holder is not close to the repair material for irradiation at many times; measured at a distance of 8 mm from the light outlet of the curing lamp, the intensity of many LED lights drops sharply by 75% or more.
3. The light intensity is even.
4. The catheter is low angle.
5. The diameter of the catheter is large enough (approximately 9 – 10 mm) to ensure adequate illumination of the posterior region.
6. Ergonomic, comfortable operation.
7. Wireless and wired two charging modes.
8. The spectrum is wide enough.
9. Sturdy and durable.