Advances in light curing.

PURPOSE

To review and connect the scientific background of light curing with clinical requirements and new technical opportunities in order to conclude the best technology for next generation light curing units.

RESULTS

Three conclusions are drawn for proper light curing: (1) A minimum dose of light is needed (wavelength dependent); (2) Internal stress can be reduced by giving the sample time to flow before gel point is reached; (3) An upper intensity limit has to be respected to limit temperature increase as well as light intensity dependent deactivation of activated photoinitiators. These conclusions can best be realized by using the softstart approach. A comparison of different light generation technologies shows that LEDs are most likely to shape the next generations of curing lights. Due to their superior power conversion rate as well as to their optimum spectral emission small and handy devices can be realized that work battery-powered and totally silent. The benefits for the dentist are improved reliability, handling, and hygiene.