curing lights

Question 1

different modes of cure?

Answer 1

Self cure- Chemical reaction when a base and catalyst are mixed.

Blue wave range light

Halogen light- Light delivered through a glass or plastic probe.
Comparatively slow.
Works best on small increments of composite.

High intensity plasma- Rapid curing.
High temperature (lamp is situated in base and cooled by a fan).

Laser based lights Fast curing-Some units take only 10 secs.

LED Lights - SOME OVERHEAD LIGHTS ON CHAIRS ARE NOW LED

Question 2

what is a monomer?

Answer 2

Present in composite and compomers.
Small molecules that bind to form Polymers

Light curing causes monomers to join together and become chain like. Known as polymers.
Polymerisation is the chemical reaction that links monomers to form polymers.

Question 3

what is a polymer?

Answer 3

loads of monomers joined together (chain of monomers polymers)

Question 4

what is a polymerisation initiator?

Answer 4

These are additives which help the monomers become polymers.
The initiator causes monomers to link up with each other forming a hard substance.

Question 5

how much light does blue light absorb?

Answer 5

400-500nanometre is blue light.

Question 6

PRECAUTIONS AND PROBLEMS with curing lights?

Answer 6

Eye protection for operator, nurse and patient

Heat generation- Pulpal damage.

Inadequate light output. Regular checks must be made.