The Importance of Proper Light Curing for Dental Restorations

1. Understanding Light Curing

Light curing is a complex process in which a specialized light source is used to harden and set materials used in dental restorations. This process is crucial to ensure the restoration is strong, durable, and long-lasting. The light used in light curing is typically a blue light that activates a photo-initiator in the material used for the restoration. However, simply seeing blue light exiting the tip of your light curing unit, is not all you need to know to ensure your restorative materials will be successfully cured.

2. Importance of Proper Light Curing

Proper light curing procedures and techniques are crucial to ensure the longevity and success of a dental restoration. Without proper light curing, the restorative material may not harden completely, leading to a weak and brittle restoration that can easily crack or break. This can result in the need for additional restorative procedures or even tooth loss.

3. Consequences of Inadequate Light Energy

Insufficient polymerization adversely affects both physical and chemical properties of the restoration¹:

• Inflammatory response
• Lower bond strengths
• Discoloration
• More water sorption
• Increased wear and fracture
• Microleakage and recurrent decay
• Post-operative sensitivity

There are no indications in the literature that says over-curing can hurt composite material– BUT you can deliver too much heat by exposing the soft tissues to light energy for too long, resulting in post-operative sensitivity.

4. Three things you should check before using your light curing unit daily

In this video our friend Madison from Bluelight Analytics explains three easy checks you should perform BEFORE using your light curing unit on patients:

1. You should ensure that your device is set in the correct mode
2. You should check that there are no scratches or debris on the tip of the light curing unit
3. Ensure that there are no other external agents that could cause malfunctioning of your light curing unit (does your device have a screen, is it working? Do all the buttons work properly? Are all removable parts cleaned and free of dust and debris?)

Even when all three checks are in place, your light curing unit might not be delivering it’s promised energy output due to several factors; some lights’ output can degrade due to low battery, placement of your infection control barrier, mode changes, and many more. It is highly recommended that you regularly check your light’s output so you can ensure you’re set up for restorative success with every procedure. Bluelight & 3M have partnered to bring the most accurate in-office³ light testing service to you, for FREE, with the CheckMARC program. All you need to do is click the link² and a 3M representative will get in touch with you to set an appointment at a convenient time for you!

Happy Testing!

Request your free demo here.*
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Want to know more? Than you can check out our 3M Oral Care Deutschland instagram* account and this video:

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