Single-use, disposable, presterilized light-activation probe: the future?

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to compare a single-use, disposable, presterilized light activation probe with an equivalent autoclavable probe. Light output, heat generation, and depth of cure were investigated.

METHOD AND MATERIALS

Ten disposable and two reusable probe tips were tested. Three maximum light output readings for each tip were recorded with a radiometer. Heat generation at the probe tip was recorded, at 30-second intervals over a five-minute period, with a thermocouple probe placed under a 3-mm-thick glass slide. After light-activated "compomer" was placed in a sectional two-piece stainless steel mold and cured, depth of cure was evaluated using the scrape technique.

RESULTS

With respect to light output and depth of cure, there were no statistically significant differences between probe types, but the disposable probe generated significantly less heat.

CONCLUSION

The disposable probe performed clinically as well as an autoclavable counterpart with respect to light output, heat generation, and depth of cure.