Browse by author
Lookup NU author(s): Dr Rie Nomoto, Professor John McCabe
Full text for this publication is not currently held within this repository. Alternative links are provided below where available.
This study evaluated the characteristics of two kinds of recently developed light-curing unit; plasma arc and blue light emitting diodes (LED), in comparison with a conventional tungsten-halogen light-curing unit. The light intensity and spectral distribution of light from these light-curing units, the temperature rise of the bovine enamel surface and the depth of cure of composites exposed to each unit were investigated. The light intensity and depth of cure were determined according to ISO standards. The spectral distributions of emitted light were measured using a spectro-radiometer. The temperature increase induced by irradiation was measured by using a thermocouple. Generally, light intensities in the range 400-515 nm emitted from the plasma arc were greater than those from other types. Light in the UV-A region was emitted from some plasma arc units. The required irradiation times were six to nine seconds for the plasma arc units and 40 to 60 seconds for the LED units to create a depth of cure equal to that produced by the tungsten-halogen light with 20 seconds of irradiation. The temperature increased by increasing the irradiation time for every light-curing unit. The temperature increases were 15°C to 60°C for plasma arc units, around 15°C for a conventional halogen unit and under 10°C for LED units. Both the plasma arc and LED units required longer irradiation times than those recommended by their respective manufacturers. Clinicians should be aware of potential thermal rise and UV-A hazard when using plasma arc units.
Author(s): Nomoto R, McCabe JF, Hirano S
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: Operative Dentistry
Year: 2004
Volume: 29
Issue: 3
Pages: 287-294
Print publication date: 01/05/2004
ISSN (print): 0361-7734
ISSN (electronic): 1559-2863
Publisher: Operative Dentistry
PubMed id: 15195729
