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Objective: To test the shear bond strength of self-adhesive and conventional resin cements to zirconia after the application of different types of silanes with/without aging., Method and Materials: Three hundred and sixty zirconia specimens were randomized into 10 groups (n = 36). Five groups were assigned to the self-adhesive resin cement RelyX-Unicem (RXU) and five groups to the conventional resin cement Panavia 21 (PAN). The groups were further assigned to the following pretreatments: Monobond-S (M), Alloy Primer (AP), Clearfil (C), Experimental Universal Primer (EUP), or without silane (control group). Twelve specimens of each of the cements were tested after water storage for 24 hours (initial shear bond strength). The remaining 24 samples were aged (1,500 cycles, n = 12; or 13,500 cycles, n = 12). The shear bond strength was measured (Universal Testing Machine; 1 mm/min, Zwick Roell Z010). Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA followed by post-hoc Scheffé tests. Student's t test was applied to test the differences between the two cements (P < .05)., Results: The initial bond strength of RXU was increased by the application of the different silanes. The silanes had less influence on the initial bond strength of PAN. Aging reduced the bond strength of RXU significantly in combination with two of the silanes (AP, 0 ± 0 MPa; C, 4.1 ± 0.9 MPa; P < .05). Aging led to a significant reduction of the bond strength values of PAN with the primers AP (2.9 ± 0.4 MPa) and EUP (2.5 ± 0.5 MPa; P < .05)., Conclusion: The present study indicates that the bond strength of the self-adhesive resin cement was positively influenced by the pretreatment of the zirconia surface with different silanes. Aging led to a decrease of the bond strength of both types of cements, irrespective of most of the silanes used.

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the microleakage in Class II box preparations with the gingival margin above and below the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ) restored with Silorane composite and methacrylate composite using two different layering techniques., Materials and Methods: Standardized box preparations (mesial box 1 mm above the CEJ and distal box 1 mm below the CEJ) were prepared in 60 upper premolars. The teeth were randomly divided into four groups containing 15 samples each; Group I: Restored with a Silorane composite using an oblique layering technique, Group II: Restored with Silorane composite using a vertical layering technique, Group III: Restored with methacrylate composite using the oblique layering technique, and Group IV: Restored with methacrylate composite using the vertical layering technique. The samples were stored in distilled water, followed by thermocycling and immersed in 2% methylene blue. The samples were sectioned and evaluated for microleakage at the gingival margin., Statistical Analysis: Kruskal-Wallis, Fischer exact test, Wilicoxon test, and Mann-Whitney U test., Results: Silorane composite had significantly lesser microleakage. No significant difference in microleakage was observed above and below the CEJ for Silorane-based composite., Conclusion: Silorane composite resin showed lesser microleakage compared to methacrylate composite resin., Clinical Significance: The Silorane-based composites improve the marginal adaptation due to their reduced shrinkage, thereby decreasing the residual stress at the adhesive-tooth interface.

Aim: The thickness of the adhesive layer under a bracket may be an important factor that affects the final tooth position and bond strength. With increasing use of preadjusted brackets, it is important to ensure that a consistently even layer of composite is placed under each bracket to take full advantage of bracket design and to avoid the need for compensatory bends to be placed in the archwire. Therefore, the present study is aimed at determining the optimum adhesive thickness by varying the force of application and observing the effect on the shear bond strength of orthodontic brackets., Methods: Sixty premolars extracted for orthodontic purposes were divided into three groups of 20 samples each. Adhesive thickness was measured by varying the force of application while bonding brackets with light-cured adhesive and tested on a universal testing machine to evaluate the shear bond strength., Results: The study showed that adhesive thickness is inversely proportional to applied force. In addition, the shear bond strength has a tendency to increase with a decrease in adhesive thickness up to a certain extent and then decrease., Conclusion: Adhesive thickness between bracket base and tooth surface decreases with an increase in the amount of force application from 1 to 3 oz. Mean shear bond strength increases when adhesive thickness decreases from 0.99 to 0.83 mm, and then it has a tendency to decrease when adhesive thickness decreases to 0.72 mm. Optimum adhesive thickness should be considered to be 0.83 mm, which is the thickness required to achieve sufficient bond strength to prevent chances of bond failure.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate in vitro the shear bond strength to enamel, flexural strength, flexural modulus, and contraction stress of one orthodontic composite and two flowable composites. Orthodontic brackets were bonded to 45 human maxillary premolars with the composites Transbond XT, Filtek Z-350 flow and Opallis flow and tested for shear bond strength. For measurement of flexural strength and flexural modulus, specimens were fabricated and tested under flexion. For the contraction stress test, cylindrical specimens were tested and an extensometer determined the height of the specimens. The data were subjected to one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05). The shear bond strength values were significantly lower (p<0.05) for the flowable composites compared with the orthodontic composite. For the flexural strength, no statistically significant difference was found among the composites (p>0.05) while the flexural modulus was significantly higher (p<0.05) for Transbond XT than for Filtek Z-350 flow and Opallis flow. The orthodontic composite presented significantly lower contraction stress values than the flowable composites (p<0.05). The light-activated orthodontic composite material presented higher flexural modulus and shear bond strength and lower contraction stress than both flowable composites.

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the cytotoxic effects of two indirect composite resins (Artglass and Solidex) on the viability of L-929 fibroblast cells at different incubation periods by storing them in artificial saliva (AS)., Materials and Methods: Disk-shaped test samples were prepared according to manufacturers' instructions. Test materials were cured with light source (Dentacolor XS, Heraus Kulzer, Germany). The samples were divided into two groups. The first group's samples were transferred into a culture medium for 1 hour, 24 hours, 72 hours, 1 week and 2 weeks. The other group's samples were transferred into a culture medium for 1 hours, 24 hours, 72 hours, 1 week, and 2 weeks after being stored in AS for 48 hours. The eluates were obtained and pipetted for evaluation onto L-929 mouse fibroblast cultures incubated for 24 hours. Measurements were performed by MTT (3-(4,5)-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay. The degree of cytotoxicity for each sample was determined according to the reference values represented by the cells with a control group., Results: Statistical significance was determined by ANOVA. Both groups presented lower cell viability in comparison to the control group at all periods. Storing in artificial saliva reduced cytotoxicity significantly (P < 0.05). Stored Artglass and Solidex showed similar effects on cytotoxicity. Nonstored Solidex samples were found more cytotoxic than Artglass samples. The cell survival rate results of 24-hour incubation period were significantly lower than those of the other experimental periods (P < 0.05)., Conclusion: Storing indirect composite resins in AS may reduce cytotoxic effects on the fibroblast cells. However, resin-based dental materials continue to release sufficient components to cause cytotoxic effects in vitro after 48 hours of storing in AS.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the fluoride release of five fluoride-releasing restorative materials and three dental adhesives, before and after NaF solution treatment. Five restorative materials (Fuji IX GP, GC Corp.; Ketac N100, 3M ESPE; Dyract Extra, Dentsply; Beautifil II, Shofu Inc.; Wave, SDI) and three dental adhesives (Stae, SDI; Fluorobond II - Shofu Inc.; Prime & Bond NT, Dentsply) were investigated before and after NaF solution treatment. A fluoride ion-selective electrode was to measure fluoride concentrations. During the 86-day period before NaF solution treatment, Fuji IX GP released the highest amount of fluoride among the restorative materials while Prime & Bond NT was the highest among the dental adhesives. After NaF solution treatment, Fuji IX GP again ranked the highest in fluoride release among the restorative materials while Fluorobond II ranked the highest among dental adhesives. It was concluded that the compositions and setting mechanisms of fluoride-containing dental materials influenced their fluoride release and recharge abilities.

Context: The effect of different curing units on bond strength of orthodontic brackets is still unclear when utilizing nanofilled composites in comparison with traditional Transbond-XT., Aim: To evaluate the influence of two adhesive promoters and two curing-light units on the shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic brackets., Settings and Design: The factors under study were adhesive promoters (nanofilled composite - Filtek-Z350 flowable restorative and conventional orthodontic adhesive - Transbond XT) and curing-light units (halogen lamp - Ultralux and LED device - Radii-Call)., Material and Methods: Forty lower bovine incisors were utilized. The teeth were distributed in four groups (n = 10) according to the combination between adhesive promoters and curing-light units. Scotchbond Multipurpose-Plus and Transbond-XT primer were used to bond Filtek-Z350 Flowable Restorative and Transbond-XT, respectively. After storage in distilled water for 24 h, the brackets were subjected to SBS test at a speed of 0.5 mm/min until bracket debonding. The Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) was assigned at fractured specimens., Statistical Analysis Used: Analysis of variance and Tukey test were utilized. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare ARI scores between the groups (p<0.05)., Results: There was statistically significant difference between the adhesive promoters tested. Transbond-XT showed higher SBS means than Filtek-Z350. There was no statistically significant difference between both curing-light units tested in this study, neither between ARI scores., Conclusions: The conventional orthodontic adhesive presented higher bond strength than the nanofilled composite, although both materials interacted similarly to the teeth. The curing-light devices tested did not influence on bond strength of orthodontic brackets.

Purpose: To compare the microhardness of several dual-cure, self-adhesive resin cements used to lute fiber posts at 24 hours and seven days after cementation., Methods: Bovine incisors were selected to lute 15 fiber posts that were 12 mm long (FRC Postec Plus size 3, Ivoclar-Vivadent). Five resin cements were tested: Multilink Automix (Ivoclar-Vivadent), without light-curing, and the self-adhesive resin cements Maxcem Elite (Kerr), RelyX Unicem (3M ESPE), G-Cem (GC), and Smartcem 2 (Dentsply), which were light-cured for 40 seconds (LED Bluephase, Ivoclar-Vivadent). Each root was embedded in chemically cured acrylic resin and stored at 37°C for 24 hours. The roots were transversally sectioned into nine specimens that were each 1 mm thick, with three specimens corresponding to each root third. Indentations (100g, 30 seconds) were performed on each section in the resin cement, at 24 hours and seven days after cementation, using a Vickers digital microdurometer (Buehler). Data were analyzed by two-way analysis of variance, Student-Newman-Keuls test, and paired t-test (p<0.05)., Results: A significant influence was found (p<0.05) for the resin cement evaluated, the root third, and their interactions on microhardness values at 24 hours and seven days after post cementation. RelyX Unicem and G-Cem exhibited the highest microhardness values, whereas Multilink Automix presented the lowest. All resin cements suffered a decrease in microhardness according to root canal depth, with the exception of G-Cem and Multilink Automix at 24 hours and Smartcem 2 after seven days. After seven days, the evaluated resin cements showed a significant increase in microhardness values, with the exception of Maxcem Elite and Smartcem 2 at the coronal third., Conclusions: Microhardness of the self-adhesive resin cements when used to lute fiber posts was material-dependent and higher values were obtained in the coronal third, revealing their sensitivity to light irradiation. More information regarding the polymerization reaction of these cements is warranted. According to the current results, microhardness values were significantly higher one week after post luting.

Aims: This in vitro study was conducted to evaluate and compare the micro-hardness of composite resin and resin-modified glass ionomer cement using light-emitting diode (LED) and halogen curing and also to inter-compare the effect of LED and halogen curing., Materials and Methods: The study sample comprised of 4 stainless steel plates with a thickness of 2 mm. For these stainless steel plates, holes were made to a diameter of 3 mm. The samples were divided into 4 groups of 8 each and labeled as group I, group II, group III, group IV, thus making provision for the two different modes of light exposure. In each group, the hole was restored with its respective restorative material and cured with light-curing unit according to manufacturer instructions. The results were statistically analyzed using Mann-Whitney test., Results and Conclusion: It was concluded that the curing efficacy of the LED lamp was comparable to that of conventional halogen lamp, even with a 50% reduction in cure time, and resin composite (Filtek Z-250) presented the highest hardness values, whereas complete hardening of resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) (Vitremer) was observed because of its self-curing system even after the removal of light source.

Background: Although attritive and abrasive wear of recent composite resins has been substantially reduced, in vitro wear testing with reasonably simulating devices and quantitative determination of resulting wear is still needed. Three-dimensional scanning methods are frequently used for this purpose. The aim of this trial was to compare maximum depth of wear and volume loss of composite samples, evaluated with a contact profilometer and a non-contact CCD camera imaging system, respectively., Method: Twenty-three random composite specimens with wear traces produced in a ball-on-disc sliding device, using poppy seed slurry and PMMA suspension as third-body media, were evaluated with the contact profilometer (TalyScan 150, Taylor Hobson LTD, Leicester, UK) and with the digital CCD microscope (VHX1000, KEYENCE, Osaka, Japan). The target parameters were maximum depth of the wear and volume loss.Results - The individual time of measurement needed with the non-contact CCD method was almost three hours less than that with the contact method. Both, maximum depth of wear and volume loss data, recorded with the two methods were linearly correlated (r(2) > 0.97; p < 0.01)., Conclusion: The contact scanning method and the non-contact CCD method are equally suitable for determination of maximum depth of wear and volume loss of abraded composite resins.

Purpose: To investigate the influence of shade and light-curing distance on the degree of conversion (DC) and flexural strength (FS) of a dual-cure core build-up resin composite., Methods: 135 specimens were prepared and divided into three main groups according to the shade of the composite core material; dentin, blue and white shades. Each group was further subdivided into three subgroups according to the light-curing distance; 0 mm, 3 mm and 5 mm. The DC was measured using FTIR spectrometer. For testing the FS, the mini flexural test specimens were prepared and subjected to three point bending test in a universal testing machine. The results were analyzed using two-way and one-way ANOVA followed by Duncan's Multiple Range Test. The significance level was set at P = 0.05., Results: Both the DC and FS of the dual-cure core build-up material used in this study were influenced by the shade of the material and the light-curing distance. The blue shade exhibited the highest percentage DC values while the white shade revealed the lowest percentage DC. The dentin shade at 0 mm light-curing distance exhibited the highest mean FS value; however the 3 mm and 5 mm light-curing distance of the white shade showed the lowest mean FS values.

Objectives: The study was aimed at investigating the cytotoxicity of different composites as a function of composite shade and the light curing unit (LCU) employed., Methods: Non-polymerized and polymerized samples of the composites Grandio(®) (VOCO, Cuxhaven), Solitaire(®) (Heraeus Kulzer, Hanau) and Filtek Z 250(®) (3M/Espe, Seefeld) in two markedly differing shades (A2, C2) were prepared. Polymerization was performed with two LCUs: Heliolux II (Ivoclar/Vivadent, Ellwangen) and Swiss Master Light (EMS, Nyon, Switzerland). To obtain composite extracts, the samples were immersed in cell culture medium (DMEM--Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium), which was replaced daily up to the 7th day of the experiment, and then on the 14th, 21st and 28th day. After incubation of human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) with the extracts obtained, cytotoxicity was determined using the MTT test., Results: With the non-polymerized samples, essentially no influence of the composite shades investigated on HGF viability was detected, with the exception of the Solitaire material, where a higher cytotoxicity of the shade C2 in the non-polymerized state was found at the end of the observation period. After polymerization of the different composites, the cytotoxic reaction observed for the extracts of shade C2 was stronger than that observed for A2. After polymerization with the Heliolux II (HLX) LCU, the extracts of composites Grandio and Solitaire C2 were significantly more toxic than those of the A2 shade (p<0.01). Polymerization with the Swiss Master Light (SML) reduces this cytotoxic effect. The extracts of the Grandio composite showed the least cytotoxic effect throughout the observation period, irrespective of the LCU used. For the extracts of the Z250 specimens, the cytotoxicity observed was generally higher., Significance: The results show that the shade of the composite has an influence on its cytotoxicity and that this cytotoxicity is also influenced by the light curing unit used. It was observed that composites of the darker shade (C2) had a higher cytotoxicity, which varied with the LCU employed., (Copyright © 2011 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Light-curable polymers are commonly used in restorative surgery, prosthodontics and surgical procedures. Despite the fact of wide application, there are clinical problems due to limitations of blue light penetration: application is restricted to defects exposed to the light source, layered filling of defect is required., Methods: Combining photo-activation and up conversion allows efficient polymer hardening by deep penetrating near-infrared (NIR) light. The prerequisite 450 nm blue light to polymerize dental resins could be achieved by filler particles, which absorb the incident NIR irradiation and convert it into visible light., Results: The on spot generated blue light results in uniform polymer hardening. Composite samples of 5mm thickness were cured two times faster than pure polymer cured by blue light (30 and 60 s, respectively). Overall degree of monomer conversion resulted in higher values of more than 40%. The enhanced transmission of NIR light was confirmed by optical analysis of dentin and enamel. The NIR transmittance surge in the 800-1200 nm window could improve sealing of complex and deep caries lesions., Significance: We demonstrate faster curing and an improved degree of polymerization by using upconversion filler particles as multiple light emission centers. This study represents an alternative approach in curing dental resins by NIR source., (Copyright © 2011 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

This study evaluated the sealing ability and push-out bond strength of two luting cements cured with two different types of light curing units (LCU): light-emitting diode (LED) versus quartz tungsten halogen (QTH). Forty teeth were divided into four groups(n=10/group). Quartz fiber posts (D. T. Light-Post) were luted to coronal or apical section of root canals using two types of resin cements (Panavia F or RelyX) cured with either LED LCU (Elipar FreeLight II) or QTH LCU (Optilux 501). Highest push-out bond strength was exhibited by QTH-cured RelyX, which was not significantly different from LED-cured RelyX but was higher than QTH-cured Panavia F. The push-out bond strength of Panavia F did not differ with LCU type (p>0.05), but exhibited lower values than both QTH- and LED-cured RelyX. Fluid filtration test revealed that sealing ability was not influenced by luting cement type, but was significantly influenced by LCU type in favor of QTH light source: QTH-cured specimens displayed better seal than LED-cured ones (p<0.05).

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate in vivo the failure rate of metallic brackets bonded with two orthodontic composites. Nineteen patients with ages ranging from 10.5 to 38.7 years needing corrective orthodontic treatment were selected for study. The enamel surfaces from second premolars to second premolars were treated with Transbond Plus-Self Etching Primer (3M Unitek). Next, 380 orthodontic brackets were bonded on maxillary and mandibular teeth, as follows: 190 with Transbond XT composite (3M Unitek) (control) and 190 with Transbond Plus Color Change (3M Unitek) (experimental) in contralateral quadrants. The bonded brackets were light cured for 40 s, and initial alignment archwires were inserted. Bond failure rates were recorded over a six-month period. At the end of the evaluation, six bond failures occurred, three for each composite. Kaplan-Meyer method and log-rank test (Mantel-Cox) was used for statistical analysis, and no statistically significant difference was found between the materials (p=0.999). Both Transbond XT and Transbond Plus Color Change composites had low debonding rates over the study period.

The aim of this study was to assess the bond strength of a resin cement to intraradicular dentin varying the light-curing unit and the moment at which the light was applied. Post spaces of endodontically treated canines were prepared. The roots were distributed into 6 groups (n=10) according to the light-curing unit and the moment of light exposure: I) Quartz tungsten halogen-600 mW/cm² (QTH) + immediate light activation (t0); II) QTH + light activation after 10 min (t10); III) Light-emitting diodes (LED)-800 mW/cm² (LED-800)+ t0; IV) LED-800 + t10; V) LED-1,500 mW/cm² (LED-1500)+ t0; VI) LED-1500 + t10. After post cementation, slices from coronal, middle and apical post/root regions were submitted to the push-out test and failure evaluation. It was verified that LED-800 (4.40 ± 3.00 MPa) and LED-1500 (4.67 ± 3.04 MPa) provided bond strength statistically superior to QTH (3.13 ± 1.76 MPa) (p<0.05), and did not differ from each other (p>0.05). There was no significant difference between t0 and t10 (p>0.05). Coronal post/root region (4.75 ± 3.10 MPa) presented significantly higher bond strength than the apical (3.32 ± 2.30 MPa) (p<0.05) and middle regions (4.14 ± 2.99 MPa) showed intermediate values. Adhesive failures were predominant when using QTH. Adhesive and mixed failures occurred more frequently in the apical region. Higher adhesion of the resin cement to intraradicular dentin was observed in the coronal region with LED light-activation, regardless of the moment of light exposure.

Objective: To measure the light energy that dental students delivered to a simulated Class I restoration before training, immediately after training and 4 months after training., Methods: Thirty-eight (38) dental students used a single light-emitting diode curing light (SmartLite iQ2, Dentsply) to cure, for 10 seconds, a simulated Class I restoration positioned in the Managing Accurate Resin Curing - Patient Simulator (BlueLight analytics inc.). The students then attended an instructional lecture and received individualized instruction on optimizing their light-curing technique. The students were retested immediately after instruction and again 4 months later (without further instruction). The irradiance and energy delivered during light-curing were calculated for each student at all 3 time points. Mean values were calculated and compared., Results: Before instruction, the students delivered between 0.1 and 7.2 J/cm2 of energy (mean ± standard deviation [SD] 4.1 ± 1.7 J/cm2). After instruction, the same students delivered between 5.8 and 7.5 J/cm2 of energy (mean ± SD 6.7 ± 0.4 J/cm2). Analysis of variance and Fisher's Protected Least Significant Difference tests showed that instruction with the patient simulator led to a significant improvement in the amount of energy delivered and that the students retained this information. When retested 4 months later, the students delivered between 4.2 and 7.9 J/cm2 of energy (mean ± SD 6.1 ±1.1 J/cm2). Although this was less energy than immediately after instruction, the decline was not significant (p = 0.44)., Conclusions: Provision of immediate feedback on light-curing technique and instruction on how to avoid mistakes led to a significant and lasting improvement in the amount of energy delivered by the students.

This study evaluated the transdentinal cytotoxicity (TC) and the bond strength (BS) of a resin-modified glass-ionomer cement (RMGIC) applied to dentin covered with smear layer (SL) of different thicknesses. Forty dentin discs had thick (TSL) or thin (THSL) smear layer created on their occlusal side. In artificial pulp chambers, MDPC-23 cells were seeded on the pulpal side of the dentin discs and divided into five groups: G1TC: no treatment (control); G2TC: TSL + RMGIC; G3TC: THSL + RMGIC; G4TC: TSL removal + RMGIC; G5TC: THSL removal + RMGIC. After 24 h, cell metabolism and morphology were evaluated by the methyltetrazolium (MTT) assay and by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. For BS, the following groups were determined: G1BS: TSL removal + RMGIC; G2BS: THSL removal + RMGIC; G3BS: TSL + RMGIC; G4BS: THSL + RMGIC. Shear bond strength was tested to failure in a mechanical testing machine MTS (0.5 mm/min). Statistically significant difference was observed only between the control and experimental groups (Kruskal-Wallis, p<0.05). The metabolic activity of the viable MDPC-23 cells in G2TC, G3TC, G4TC and G5TC decreased by 54.85%, 60.79%, 64.12% and 62.51%, respectively. Mean shear bond strength values for G1BS, G2BS, G3BS and G4BS were 7.5, 7.4, 6.4 and 6.7 MPa, respectively, without significant difference among them (ANOVA, p>0.05). RMGIC presented moderate transdentinal cytotoxic effects. Maintenance or removal of smear layer did not affect the bond strength of RMGIC to dentin substrate.

Objective: To employ a laser triangulation method for measuring the dynamic shrinkage of composite resins during polymerization, and to investigate the maximum shrinkage rate (S(max)) and the time at maximum shrinkage rate (t(max))., Methods: A novel experimental set-up based on laser triangulation was utilized which was capable of real-time shrinkage strain measurements. Uncured composite was condensed into a PTFE mould and irradiated for 40 s. The laser signals obtained from lateral composite surfaces were monitored using a laser triangulation measuring system and were converted into the displacement of the tested surface. The volumetric shrinkage derived from the linear shrinkage was calculated by multiplying 3. Total volumetric shrinkage (%S) of the five restorative materials (AP-X, Charmfill, Charisma, Durafill VS, and Herculite Precis) was measured using three methods (laser triangulation method, Acuvol, and buoyancy method). S(max) and t(max) were measured using the laser triangulation method. Statistical analyses were done using the two-way ANOVA (P<0.05) and post hoc test., Results: The highest shrinkage value was measured by Acuvol, followed by laser method, and the lowest was by buoyancy method. All the three methods of measuring %S generated the same, statistically secured ranking for the five light-cured restorative materials: DurafillVS < AP-X < Herculite Precis < Charisma < Charmfill. %S measured by laser triangulation method varied between 2.06% and 3.37%. S(max) varied between 4.39 μm/s and 29.25 μm/s. t(max) varied between 0.77 s and 1.59 s. Significant differences in S(max) (F=734.87,P<0.01) and t(max) (F=53.24,P< 0.01) for five composite resins were found., Conclusion: Laser triangulation method offers several advantages over the conventional methods of measuring polymerization shrinkage. It is simple, compact, non-invasive and suitable for measuring the dynamic polymerization shrinkage in real time without delay. Therefore, it can be used to characterize the shrinkage kinetics in a wide range of visible-light-cure materials.

Objective: To investigate the effects of light-curing modes on the polymerization shrinkage and surface hardness of resins and to explore the related clinical relevance., Methods: Resins with filler content of 76%(mass fraction) were light-cured by high intensity, low intensity and soft start curing modes for 10 s and 20 s, respectively. Specimens for detecting volumetric shrinkage and surface hardness were prepared. Volumetric shrinkage was measured with Acuvol (n=7) and surface hardness were tested with an indenter (n=5)., Results: The volumetric shrinkage of composites cured by high intensity, low intensity and soft-start curing mode was: 2.95% ± 0.08%/3.06% ± 0.03% (10 s/20 s), 2.98% ± 0.12%/3.05% ± 0.13% (10 s/20 s), and 3.03% ± 0.05%/3.11% ± 0.07% (10 s/20 s), respectively. No significant difference existed among polymerization shrinkage of composites cured by the three light-curing modes (P>0.05). The hardness of composites cured by high intensity, low intensity and soft-start curing mode was: (36.82 ± 4.45) MPa/(47.58 ± 3.16) MPa (10 s/20 s), (32.30 ± 1.33) MPa/(41.60 ± 1.83) MPa (10 s/20 s), and (34.56 ± 1.38) MPa/(44.62 ± 2.13) MPa (10 s/20 s), respectively. There existed significant difference among hardness of composites cured by the three light-curing modes (P<0.05). Polymerization shrinkage was correlated with energy density (r=-0.363,P=0.018). Surface hardness was also correlated with energy density (r=-0.890,P<0.001)., Conclusion: It would be better to use high intensity curing mode to improve the physical properties of restorations. In order to keep the physical properties of composites, it is necessary to prolong the curing time using soft-start/low intensity curing modes to increase the energy density.

Objective: Clinical successful use of resin-based composite restorations (RBCs) depends on knowledge of material and light curing unit (LCU) related factors. The purpose of this study was to evaluate general dental practitioners' knowledge of polymerisation of RBCs and LCU technology., Methods: Members of the Active Research Group of the Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK) in England, Scotland and Wales engaged in primary dental care were sent a letter introducing the study and asking for their cooperation, followed by an email containing a link to the online survey questionnaire, hosted on Surveymonkey.com. The questionnaire enquired about current LCUs, and asked a series of questions on material science., Results: Sixty-six percent of the 274 members contacted responded. Fifty-seven percent used LED units, 25% quartz tungsten halogen (QTH), and 1% plasma arc (missing: 17%). Thirty percent reported having access to a radiometer. Appropriate responses regarding the degree of conversion of composite and adhesive materials were given by 32% and 23% respectively, and 22% agreed that LED and QTH LCUs had comparable efficiency in polymerising composites. Thirty-three percent were aware that RBCs eluted substances that may have adverse local or systemic consequences. Fifty-eight percent stated that if polymerisation of RBC is slowed down, polymerisation stress will be lower, and 43% said that polymerisation shrinkage will be reduced if the degree of conversion is reduced. Knowledge (measured by appropriate responses to these questions) was not related to years since qualification (r=-0.05, n=168, p=0.53)., Conclusion: The study suggests that dentists' knowledge of curing RBC restorations and LCUs is poor. This indicates that there is a need for training and guidance in this aspect of primary dental care.

Purpose: With the introduction of photosensitive (light-activated) restorative materials in orthodontics, various methods have been suggested to enhance the polymerization of the materials used, including use of more powerful light curing devices. Bond strength is an important property and determines the amount of force delivered and the treatment duration. Many light-cured bonding materials have become popular but it is the need of the hour to determine the bonding agent that is the most efficient and has the desired bond strength., Aim: To evaluate and compare the shear bond strengths of five different orthodontic light cure bonding materials cured with traditional halogen light and low-intensity light-emitting diode (LED) light curing unit., Materials and Methods: 100 human maxillary premolar teeth, extracted for orthodontic purpose, were used to prepare the samples. 100 maxillary stainless steel bicuspid brackets of 0.018 slot of Roth prescription, manufactured by D-tech Company, were bonded to the prepared tooth surfaces of the mounted samples using five different orthodontic bracket bonding light-cured materials, namely, Enlight, Fuji Ortho LC (resin-modified glass ionomer cement), Orthobond LC, Relybond, and Transbond XT. The bond strength was tested on an Instron Universal testing machine (model no. 5582)., Results: In Group 1 (halogen group), Enlight showed the highest shear bond strength (16.4 MPa) and Fuji Ortho LC showed the least bond strength (6.59 MPa) (P value 0.000). In Group 2 (LED group), Transbond showed the highest mean shear bond strength (14.6 MPa) and Orthobond LC showed the least mean shear bond strength (6.27 MPa) (P value 0.000). There was no statistically significant difference in the shear bond strength values of all samples cured using either halogen (mean 11.49 MPa) or LED (mean 11.20 MPa), as the P value was 0.713., Conclusion: Polymerization with both halogen and LED resulted in shear bond strength values which were above the clinically acceptable range given by Reynolds. The LED light curing units produced comparable shear bond strength to that of halogen curing units.

This study investigated the influence of the different curing distances with three polymerization modes in terms of the surface microhardness of four resin composites as a function of energy density. A hybrid resin composite and flowable composite from each of two manufacturers were evaluated. The specimens were polymerized with one of two light-curing units: 1) Mini LED AutoFocus (1500 mW/cm2) with a fast curing mode, for which two polymerization regimens were used: a) one AutoFocus function cycle and b) two AutoFocus function cycles, and 2) LEDemetron I (950 mW/cm2) with a 20-second curing time. Polymerization was performed with the curing tip at a distance of 0 mm, 3.0 mm, 6.0 mm, and 9.0 mm from the top surface of the specimen, and the power density of each light source was measured with a spectrophotometer. All specimens were stored in distilled water in a light-proof container at 37°C for 24 hours, and their top and bottom surface Knoop hardness numbers were determined. Microhardness data were submitted to two-way analysis of variance and multiple comparisons with a Tukey test. All statistical analyses were performed at a significance level of 0.05. Though the curing lights tested exhibited a decrease in power density with distance, the rate and extent of power density loss were not the same. The polymerization mode and curing tip distance had a significant effect on the composite microhardness. There was also a significant interaction among polymerization mode, curing tip distance, and microhardness. The curing ability of the three polymerization modes was ranked in terms of the hardness percent values: the LEDemetron I > two cycles of the Mini LED AutoFocus > one cycle of the Mini LED AutoFocus.

Background: Recent advances in resin adhesives and restorative materials, as well as an increased demand for esthetics, have lead to the introduction of newer resin-based composites like nanocomposites and light-curing units like light emitting diodes (LEDs)., Aim: The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of conventional quartz tungsten halogen (QTH) curing unit and blue LED on marginal adaptation of microhybrid composite (Filtek Z250) and nanocomposite (Filtek Z350) resins., Materials and Methods: Eighty Class V cavities were prepared on, extracted human premolars and were divided into four groups of 20 each. The four groups were designed according to the restorative resin and light cure unit used microhybrid/QTH, nanocomposites/QTH, microhybrid/LED and nanocomposites/LED. After thermocycling and immersion in 2% Basic Fuschin dye solution, the teeth were sectioned and dye penetration was observed under a stereomicroscope at 20X magnification., Statistical Analysis: All the samples were scored and results were analyzed using the "Kruskal Wallis and Mann Whitney tests" with "Wilcoxone correction.", Results: The results revealed least microleakage in microhybrid composites exposed to QTH and maximum in nanocomposites exposed to LED., Conclusion: Microhybrid composites exhibited lesser microleakage than nanocomposite resins.

The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of two light units, a light-emitting diode (LED) and a plasma arc light (PAC), on the shear bond strength (SBS) of brackets bonded to enamel. Ninety bovine teeth were divided into six groups, according to the light-curing unit and exposure times used. In the LED (Ortholux; 3M-Unitek) group, the specimens were light cured for 5, 10, and 15 seconds. In the PAC (Apollo 95E; DenMed Technologies) group, the specimens were light cured for 3, 6, and 9 seconds. The brackets were bonded with Transbond XT (3M-Unitek), stored in distilled water at 37 °C for 24 hours and then submitted to SBS testing in a universal testing machine. The adhesive remnant index (ARI) was used to evaluate the amount of adhesive remaining on the teeth. According to analysis of variance and Tukey multiple comparisons test, the highest mean SBS was obtained with the LED at 15 seconds (16.68 MPa), which did not significantly differ from the LED 10 (14.76 MPa) or 5 (13.92 MPa) second groups (P > 0.05). The LED 10 and 5 second groups were not significantly different from the PAC 9 second group (12.66 MPa) or from the PAC 6 second group (9.96 MPa). The lowest mean SBS was obtained with the PAC 3 second group (8.29 MPa), which did not differ significantly from the PAC 6 second group. The method of light curing did not influence the ARI, with score 3 predominant. The LED at 5 seconds and the PAC at 3 seconds provided sufficient mean SBS to resist either orthodontic or masticatory forces.

Purpose: To investigate the shortest exposure time of different light emitting diode (LED)-curing devices for different resin composites in a clinically relevant laboratory model., Methods: Nine LED curing devices (Bluephase, Bluephase 16i, Bluephase G2, Bluephase 20i/Ivoclar Vivadent, DEMI/sds Kerr, Elipar FreeLight 2, Elipar S10/3M ESPE, Radii plus/SDI, mini LED Autofocus/Satelec) were investigated to polymerize Tetric EvoCeram (TEC) and Filtek Supreme XT B (FS) in the shades A1, A2, A3, A3.5, and A4. The Bluephase 20i was investigated in its high power and turbo modes. Stainless steel molds (Ø = 5 mm, h = 6 mm, six resin composite test samples per curing device, material, and shade) were filled in three increments of 2 mm thickness each and incrementally exposed with the light guide tip in a 7 mm distance from the bottom side to simulate a Class II curing situation. Surface hardness was measured 10 minutes post exposure at bottom surfaces of resin samples (n=3 per sample). A bottom/top-surface hardness ratio of 80% of a reference surface hardness cured at a zero-distance (40 seconds) was defined as clinically acceptable for safe curing. A statistical analysis (Excel) was carried out., Results: To ensure a ratio in surface hardness of at least 80% the minimal exposure time(s) were: Elipar FreeLight 2, DEMI: TEC and FS: 10 seconds for all shades, except DEMI FS A4: 20 seconds. Elipar S10: 10 seconds for both, TEC and FS shades A2-A4 but 5 seconds for shades A1. Bluephase, Bluephase 16i and Bluephase G2: FS: 10 seconds for shades A1-A3.5; 20 seconds for shade A4. TEC: Bluephase: A1-A3.5: 10 seconds, A4: 20 seconds. Bluephase 16i: A1-A3: 10 seconds; A3.5 + A4: 30 seconds. Bluephase G2: A1-A3: 10 seconds; A3.5 + A4: 20 seconds. Bluephase 20i-HIP: 10 seconds for all shades of TEC and FS, Bluephase 20i-Turbo: 10 seconds for all shades of TEC but 5 seconds for all shades of FS: Radii plus: TEC A1-A3: 10 seconds; A3.5+A4: 20 seconds. FS A1, A2 and A4: 10 seconds; A3+A3.5: 20 seconds. Mini LED Autofocus: TEC A1, A3, A3.5: 10 seconds; A2: 15 seconds; A4: 20 seconds. FS A1: 5 seconds; A2-A4: 10 seconds. In its turbo mode with a 5-second exposure time, the Bluephase 20i was able to polymerize all shades of FS, but not of TEC. For the Elipar S10 and the Mini LED Autofocus this was also possible for the A1 shade of FS; for Elipar S10 additionally for TEC. The higher power of the Bluephase G2 and the S10 LED allowed the use of an enhanced light guide tip diameter while the exposure time was not affected compared to their predecessors equipped with an 7.5 or 8 mm light guide tip diameter respectively. Nevertheless, 10 seconds should be the minimal exposure time recommended for lighter shades under optimal circumstances.

This study investigated the effectiveness of polymerization of various curing regimes on five nanocomposite restorative materials—Z350, Grandio, Clearfil Majesty Esthetic, Ice and Tetric EvoCeram—by utilizing microhardness measurements. Five (n=5) disc-shaped specimens of each material were subjected to one of three curing regimes: curing with a halogen light for 20 seconds, curing with an LED light for 20 seconds and curing with an LED light for 10 seconds. Immediately following curing, hardness measurements were made with a Vickers indenter at five different locations on both the top and bottom surfaces of each disc. The mean for each surface was calculated. Data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey HSD (α=0.05). The results demonstrated that among the Z350 composite samples, top and bottom microhardness values showed no statistical differences when cured with the halogen 20 second or LED 20 second regimes (p>0.05). Comparison of the top and bottom values of discs cured with the LED 10 second regime demonstrated significant differences (p<0.0001). Grandio samples cured with the halogen 20 second regime showed no statistical differences between top and bottom microhardness values (p>0.05); however, the bottom values of Grandio discs cured with the LED 20 second and 10 second regimes were significantly lower when compared with top surface values (p=0.001 and p<0.0001, respectively). Clearfil Majesty Esthetic, Ice and Tetric Evo Ceram samples cured with the halogen 20 second regime produced significantly lower bottom microhardness values, while both LED regimes produced top and bottom surfaces that were statistically comparable. The conclusion may be drawn that LED 10 second curing regimes were insufficient to cure Z350 and Grandio, while they were adequate for curing Clearfil Majesty Esthetic, Ice and Tetric EvoCeram.

This in vitro study evaluated microleakage in Class II cavities restored with dental composite and varying light-curing units and the temperature of the composite when subjected to a thermocycling test. Ninety cavities were prepared on the proximal surfaces of bovine teeth and randomly divided according to the light-curing mode (QTH-420 mW/cm2, LED 2nd generation-1100 mW/cm2, or LED 3rd generation-700 mW/cm2) and temperature of the resin composite (23°C, 54°C and 60°C). Following the restorative procedures and thermocycling, the samples were immersed in methylene blue for 12 hours. The samples were ground and the powder prepared for analysis in an absorbance spectrophotometer. All the results were statistically analyzed using the nonparametric tests of Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn (p ≤ 0.05). The results showed that there was no statistical difference between the light-curing modes at a temperature of 23°C. For 54°C, QTH showed a microleakage mean that was significantly lower than those of the LED groups, and for 60°C, QTH had a microleakage mean significantly lower than that of the LED 2nd generation group. There was no statistical difference between the temperatures of the resin composite when LEDs were used. For QTH, 54°C showed statistically lower microleakage than 23°C. The group preheated to 60°C showed no difference when compared to the group heated to 23°C. Preheating the resin composite (54°C and 60°C) did not improve the microleakage means when high-irradiance LED was used; however, it decreased the microleakage means when a QTH with low irradiance was used.

Different irradiation protocols are proposed to polymerize dental resins, and discordances remain concerning their impact on the material. To improve this knowledge, we studied entrapment of free radicals in unfilled Bis-GMA/TEGDMA (50:50 wt%) resin after light cure. The tested hypothesis was that various irradiation parameters (curing time, irradiance, and radiant exposure) and different irradiation modes (continuous and pulse-delay) led to different amounts of trapped free radicals. The analysis of cured samples (n = 3) by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) revealed that the concentrations of trapped free radicals significantly differed according to the curing protocol. When continuous modes with similar radiant exposure were compared, higher concentrations of trapped free radicals were measured for longer times with lower irradiance. Concerning pulse modes, the delay had no influence on trapped radical concentration. These results give new insights into the understanding of the photopolymerization process and highlight the relevance of using EPR when studying polymerization of dimethacrylate-based materials.

Purpose: In the treatment of midface fractures, the fragments are immobilized using screws and plates for osteosynthesis until reunion has occurred. This method involves drilling holes for the insertion of the screws, which can be associated with additional fracturing of the corresponding bone owing to the complex architecture and thin layers of facial bone. To alleviate this problem, new adhesive techniques for fixing the plates for osteosynthesis have been investigated, mitigating the detrimental effects of screw hole drilling. In the present experimental study, the strength of this adhesive bond and its resistance to hydrolysis were investigated., Materials and Methods: To determine the adhesive bonding strength, a tension test was implemented. Osteosynthesis plates with screw holes 1.3 mm in diameter were fixed to cortical bone samples of bovine femur using ultraviolet (UV) light-curing polymethylmethacrylate bone cement. To facilitate bonding, the surface of the bone was conditioned with an amphiphilic bonding agent before cementing. UV light curing was implemented using either a conventional UV unit, such as is used in dentistry, or with a specialized UV unit with a limited emission spectrum but high luminosity. Reference control samples were prepared without application of the bone bonding agent. After this procedure, the samples were stored for 1 to 7 days at 37°C submerged in 0.9% saline solution before being subjected to the tension test., Results: Without the bone bonding agent, the bonding strength was 0.2 MPa. The primary average bonding strength at day 0 was 8.5 MPa when cured with the conventional UV unit and 14 MPa for the samples cured with the specialized UV unit. An almost constant average bond strength of 8 and 16 MPa was noted for all samples stored up to 7 days after curing with the conventional and specialized UV unit, respectively., Conclusion: With the development of a new bone bonding agent, a method is now available to promote the bonding between the hydrophilic bone surface and the hydrophobic polymethylmethacrylate bone cement by creating an interlayer that is beneficial for adhesion. In the present in vitro study, the strength of this bond and its resistance to hydrolysis were investigated. This new method could have clinical bearing in cases in which conventional fixation with screws and plates is limited, such as can occur in comminuted fractures. The observed average bonding strengths of 8 to 16 MPa support the implementation of this technique in nonload-bearing regions such as the midface, facilitating immobilization until the bone reunion is complete., (Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Purpose: To test the bonding of orthodontic brackets to teeth using a diode-pumped solid state (DPSS) laser., Methods: A total of 60 extracted human teeth were divided randomly into four groups: Group 1 (control)--he brackets were bonded to teeth using the quartz-tungsten-halogen (QTH) light (800 mW/cm2) for 40 seconds; Groups 2-4--the brackets were bonded to teeth using the DPSS laser (500 mW/cm2) for 40 seconds, 20 seconds, and 10 seconds, respectively. The teeth were debonded using shear force in a universal testing machine, and the amount of residual adhesive remaining on each tooth was evaluated. Statistical analysis was carried out for the shear bond strength (SBS) and Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI)., Results: The brackets bonded using the DPSS laser for 40 seconds showed the highest mean SBS (13.1 +/- 1.2 MPa) among the groups. Furthermore, the DPSS laser with 10 seconds light-curing could achieve 83% of the mean SBS obtained using the QTH light for 40 seconds. The ARI scores showed no differences among all four groups suggesting a similar failure mode.

Introduction: Our objective was to compare the effects of 3 light-curing units (LCUs) (quartz-tungsten-halogen [QTH], light-emitting diode [LED], and plasma-arc curing [PAC]) on the microleakage patterns of a polyacid-modified composite (PAMC) for band cementation between the cement-enamel and the cement-band interfaces from the buccal, lingual, occlusal, and gingival margins., Methods: Sixty freshly extracted third molars were randomly divided into 3 groups of 20 teeth each. Microetched molar bands were cemented in all groups with the PAMC (Ultra Band-Lok, Reliance Orthodontic Products, Itasca, Ill) and cured for 30 seconds with the QTH (Hilux 350, Express Dental Products, Toronto, Ontario, Canada), for 20 seconds with the LED (Elipar Freelight 2, 3M Espe, Seefeld, Germany), or for 6 seconds with the PAC (Power-Pac, American Medical Technologies, Hannover, Germany). A dye penetration method was used for microleakage evaluation. Microleakage was determined with a stereomicroscope for the cement-band and cement-enamel interfaces from the buccal and lingual sides at the occlusal and gingival margins. Statistical analyses were performed with the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests. The level of significance was set at P <0.05., Results: The gingival sides in the LED and PAC groups had higher microleakage scores compared with those observed on the occlusal sides at both the cement-band and cement-enamel interfaces. The buccal sides had similar microleakage values compared with those on the lingual sides for the cement-enamel and cement-band interfaces in all LCU types. Statistical comparisons showed that there were statistically significant differences among the investigated LCUs at the cement-enamel interface (P <0.05). Post hoc comparisons showed statistically significant microleakage differences between the PAC (median, 0.950 mm), the QTH (median, 0.383 mm) (P <0.01), and the PAC and the LED (median, 0.558 mm) (P <0.05) LCUs at the cement-enamel interfaces., Conclusions: The high-intensity curing device PAC is associated with more microleakage than the LED and QTH at the cement-enamel interface., (Copyright (c) 2010 American Association of Orthodontists. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

This study evaluated the water sorption (WS), solubility (SL), and biaxial flexural strength (BFS) of a resin composite based on different polymerization units, storage permeants (distilled water and 75% ethanol), and distances between the light's tip and the composite resin. Using a stainless steel mold, 80 specimens were made and separated in two independent groups, according to the duration of storage (7 days or 60 days). The specimens were photocured using either a QTH or LED light (both used at 600 mW/cm2 for 40 seconds), with the light's tip guide either 0 mm or 2 mm from the surface of the resin. In general, the 75% ethanol produced higher WS and SL values but lower BFS values compared to water. Both distances influenced the WS and SL values, especially when 75% ethanol was used (p < 0.05), although neither distance affected BFS values (p > 0.05). For nearly all groups, the WS, SL, and BFS in different solvents and at different distances for photocuring of the tested resin were not affected by the curing light used.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of indirect restorative materials (IRMs) and light-curing units (LCUs) on the micro hardness of dual-cured resin cement., Materials and Methods: A total of 36 cylindrical samples (2 mm thick) were prepared with dual-cured resin cement (Relyx ARC) photo-activated with either a QTH (Optilight Plus) for 40s or a LED (Radii) light-curing unit for 65s. Photo-activation was performed through the 2-mm- thick IRMs and the samples were divided into six groups (n=6) according to the combination of veneering materials (without, ceramic and indirect resin) and LCUs (QTH and LED). In the control group, the samples were light-cured with a QTH unit without the interposition of any restorative material. Vickers micro hardness test was performed on the top and bottom surfaces of each sample (load of 50 g for 15 secs). The data were statistically analyzed using a three-way ANOVA followed by Tukey x s post-hoc test ( P < 0.05)., Results: There were no statistically significant differences on the top surface between the light curing-units ( P > 0.05); however, the LED provided greater hardness on the bottom surface when a ceramic material was used ( P < 0.05). The mean hardness in photo-activated samples, in which there was no interposition of indirect materials, was significantly greater ( P < 0.01)., Conclusions: It may be concluded that the interposition of the restorative material decreased the micro hardness in the deeper cement layer. Such decrease, however, was lower when the ceramic was interposed and the cement light-cured with LED.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of new-generation light-emitting diode (LED) units in comparison with the conventional tungsten-halogen, plasma arc, and first-generation LED units reported in our previous study. The irradiance of light from new-generation LED units, the temperature rise of the bovine enamel surface, and the depth of cure of composites exposed to each unit were investigated. The irradiances in the range 400-515 nm emitted from the new-generation LED units were greater than those from the first-generation LED units. The temperature increase was 15-25 degrees C for new-generation LED units compared with a typical value of 5 degrees C for the first-generation LED units at 10 s of irradiation. The relationship between the depth of cure and the logarithm of total exposure energy suggested that LED units can cure light-cured composite resins more efficiently than tungsten-halogen or plasma arc units.

Objectives: Curing light sources propel the photopolymerization process. The effect of 3 curing units on polymerization shrinkage and depth of cure was investigated., Method and Materials: The curing lights were a conventional and a soft-start quartz-tungsten-halogen (QTH) light source and a light-emitting diode (LED) source. The soft-start QTH and LED intensity outputs were 9% and 17% less than the conventional QTH source, respectively. For a 40-second light cure, the light energy was 32% and 14% lower, respectively. The light sources were applied to 4 restorative composites (microfilled, 2 hybrids, and nanofilled). For each light unit-composite combination, the development of postgel shrinkage during polymerization was measured with strain gauges (n = 15), and the Knoop hardness was tested at 0.5-mm-depth increments to assess degree of cure 15 minutes after polymerization (n = 5). The results were statistically analyzed with 2-way ANOVA at .05 significance level, followed by pairwise comparisons., Results: Both factors, light source and composite, significantly affected postgel shrinkage and hardness (P < .05). The conventional QTH unit generally produced the highest shrinkage and hardness (at composite surface and 2-mm depth). The soft-start QTH unit generated the least shrinkage but achieved the lowest depth of cure. The resulting values for the LED unit were mostly in between the results of the other 2 units., Conclusion: Curing lights should provide sufficient light energy to thoroughly cure composite restorations, which might be achieved without compromising shrinkage stresses if initial intensity is reduced.

Objective: To explore the effect of Radii barrier sleeves on the cure depth of composite resin., Methods: Cylinder mold was prepared, and the resin was filled strictly into the mold. The surface was flattened and then cured with plastic engraver's knife.The depth of composite resin which was cured by QHL75TM with or without Radii barrier sleeves was compared., Results: The cure depth of composite resin which were cured by QHL75TM with or without Radii barrier sleeves of photo-curing machine was 4.38 mm and 4.27 mm respectively,with no statistical difference., Conclusion: The cure depth of composite resin is not influenced by Radii barrier sleeves under the same light condition.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the degree of conversion of a methacrylate-based sealer (Epiphany; Pentron Clinical Technologies, Wallingford, CT) with regard to the method of photoactivation, distance from the light-curing unit (LCU), and post-curing time. Freshly mixed Epiphany sealer was dispensed into half-pipe-shaped silicone moulds (n = 48), after which the specimens were photoactivated with one of the following LCUs from the coronal aspect: (1) quartz tungsten halogen/40 seconds and (2) light-emitting diode/20 seconds. In each specimen, the degree of conversion was measured at three different locations (coronal, middle, and apical) using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy before and after photoactivation. The amount of conversion was approximately 50% after photoactivation and improved by approximately 10% after 15 days. Conversion of Epiphany was not affected by the type of LCU (p > 0.001) or the distance from the LCU (p > 0.001) but showed a significant increase within time (p < 0.001). These results indicate incomplete polymerization of Epiphany, despite a post-curing time of as long as 2 weeks in vitro.

Objective: To compare the microleakage of the enamel-adhesive-bracket complex at the occlusal and gingival margins of brackets bonded with high-intensity light curing lights and conventional halogen lights., Materials and Methods: Forty-five freshly extracted human maxillary premolar teeth were randomly separated into three groups of 15 teeth each. Stainless steel brackets were bonded in all groups according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Specimens (15 per group) were cured for 40 seconds with a conventional halogen light, 20 seconds with light-emitting diode (LED), and 6 seconds with plasma arc curing light (PAC). After curing, the specimens were further sealed with nail varnish, stained with 0.5% basic-fuchsine for 24 hours, sectioned and examined under a stereomicroscope, and scored for microleakage for the enamel-adhesive and bracket-adhesive interfaces from both the occlusal and gingival margins. Statistical analyses were performed using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U-tests with a Bonferroni correction., Results: The type of light curing unit did not significantly affect the amount of microleakage at the gingival or occlusal margins of investigated interfaces (P >.05). The gingival sides in the LED and PAC groups exhibited higher microleakage scores compared with those observed on occlusal sides for the enamel-adhesive and adhesive-bracket interfaces. The halogen light source showed similar microleakage at the gingival and occlusal sides between both adhesive interfaces., Conclusions: High-intensity curing units did not cause more microleakage than conventional halogen lights. This supports the use of all these curing units in routine orthodontic practice.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of different ceramic thickness on heat generation during resin cement photo-activation by QTH (quartz-tungsten-halogen), LED (light emitting diode), and PAC (plasma arc-curing) LCUs (light curing units). The resin cement used was Rely X ARC (3M-ESPE), and the ceramic was IPS Empress Esthetic (Ivoclar-Vivadent), of which 0.7-, 1.4- and 2.0-mm thick disks, 0.8 mm in diameter were made. Temperature increase was recorded with a type-K thermocouple connected to a digital thermometer (Iopetherm 46). An acrylic resin base was built to guide the thermocouple and support the 1.0-mm thick dentin disk. A 0.1-mm thick black adhesive paper matrix with a perforation 6 mm in diameter was placed on the dentin to contain the resin cement and support the ceramic disks of different thicknesses. Three LCUs were used: QTH, LED and PAC. Nine groups were formed (n=10) according to the interaction: 3 ceramic thicknesses, 1 resin cement and 3 photo-activation methods. Temperature increase data were submitted to Tukey's test (5%). For all ceramic thicknesses, a statistically significant difference in temperature increase was observed among the LCUs, with the highest mean value for the QTH LCU (p<0.05). For all the LCUs, a thickness of 0.7 mm produced the highest temperatures (1.4 and 2.0mm, p<0.05). There was no difference in temperature values between the latter two thicknesses (p>0.05). The interaction of higher energy density with smaller ceramic thickness showed higher temperature increase values.

Aims: While light-activating composite resins, the light tip may not always be close to the surface of the restoration. This may be intentional in an attempt to create a ramp cure. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a range of separation distances between the light tip and the restoration surface on the depth of composite cure for different types of light-curing units with a broad range of outputs., Methods: Three halogen light units, one plasma arc-curing (PAC) light unit and two light-emitting diode (LED) curing lights in clinical use were tested, and a total of 570 restorations cured in a two-part human tooth model at separations ranging from 0 to 15 mm. The tooth was disassembled and depth of cure determined using the scrape test ISO 4049. Light intensity was also measured at each separation distance for each light., Results: The depth of cure was generally found to decrease as the separation distance increased for all lights at the various cure times. However, the effect of increasing the separation distance was less than anticipated. The depth of cure was also related to the light output., Conclusions: Depth of composite cure was directly related to intensity and duration of light exposure and inversely related to distance of the light source from the surface for halogen and plasma lights. However, the effect of increasing the separation distance up to 15 mm was less than expected. Altering the separation distance in order to modify the polymerisation characteristics is unlikely to be effective.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate, in vitro, the color stability of three composite resins of two different shades (A3 and C3) cured with either a quartz tungsten halogen (QTH) or a light emitting diode (LED) source. Forty specimens (20 x 2 mm) were prepared for each composite (Tetric Ceram, Heliomolar and Esthet-X), being 20 for each shade. In each group, 10 specimens were light-cured using the QTH unit and 10 with the LED source. The shade of the materials was evaluated before and after submitting the specimens to artificial accelerated aging (4 h UV-B/4 h condensing vapor), using a reflection spectrophotometer. deltaE means were calculated and analyzed statistically by 2-way ANOVA and Tukey's test at 5% significance level. Both A3 and C3 shades of Esthet-X composite resin showed the lowest color change when cured with the QTH light, while Tetric C3 cured with the QTH light showed the highest color change.