Abstract
The use of photo-curable resin composite restorations is an essential treatment modality in modern dental practice. The success and longevity of these restorations depend on achieving predictable and effective polymerization. Understanding the dynamics of the polymerization and the effect of light cure units (LCUs) on this process is paramount. The goal of this concise narrative review is to provide a simplified presentation of basic principles of composite chemistry, polymerization reactions, and photo-curing with relevant terminologies. Clinical guidelines for choosing and maintaining LCUs, as well as safety precautions and factors under the control of the clinician are listed. Finally, clinical recommendations of LCUs’ usage and monitoring are included to aid practitioners in achieving predictable polymerization during the placement of direct resin composite restorations.
Highlights
The first visible light cure units (LCUs) introduced for use in dental clinics were quartz–tungsten halogen (QTH) devices
There is an assumption by clinicians and some researchers that the entire surface at the tip of the LCU emits the same level of light
LCUs d) Distance from curing tip should be as minimal as possible e) Tip should be flat on the tooth rather than titled to avoid areas of missed curing f) Ensure that the curing tip covers the whole cavity or use overlapping curing runs light cure device tip must be large enough to cover the entire area of the restoration
Summary
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations. The cavity is prepared based on well-acknowledged conservative principles, followed by the application of the adhesive system, composite is placed, and it is light-cured This concise review aims to summarize relevant reports the basic principles of polymerization and photo-curing, as well as the most effective practices of resin composite placement and curing, while elaborating on the types of LCUs currently available and their inherent properties and the characteristics of the accompanied beam. The applications of RC in dentistry are diverse This material has been adopted by all dental specialties and has replaced the majority of the metal-based products used for direct restorative work [16,17].
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