Three generations of led lights and clinical implications for optimizing their use. 1: from past to present

Abstract

In the present era of adhesive dentistry light-curing units are essential pieces of surgery equipment for everyday practice. The success and longevity of light-activated resin sealants, photo-cured restorations and orthodontic treatments are related to the efficacy of the light-curing process. Energy efficient blue LED lights are rapidly replacing their halogen lamp predecessors as the standard light source. Manufacturers are producing materials with different initiators and not all of these materials can be properly polymerized with blue LED lights. Clinical Relevance: Adequate curing in depth is basic to the long-term clinical success of any light-activated restoration. As dentists enter the post-amalgam era they are required to restore increasingly large cavities with direct resin composite. To achieve this goal predictably, an appropriate light source needs to be combined with materials knowledge, requisite clinical skills and attention to detail throughout the entire restoration process.