DML1: Miscellaneous properties of Composites Flashcards
What are the advantages of light cured composites
- single component systems
- no mixing so minimal porosity
- less decolouration
- virtually command set (when light source is directed)
- rapid polymerisation
- thin inhibited layer
What are the issues with light cured composites
- dont leave on bench because direct sunglight can initiate the free radical substitution
- it is light sensitive during application so reduces working time
- retinal damage can occur
- there is a limited depth of cure (2mm) so large cavities have to have composites built up incrementally
Why is a high degree of conversion desirable
Because for optimum mechanical properties the majority of C=C bonds need to be converted otherwise the restoration will fracture
What is the degree of conversion for light cured composites
65-80%
What is the degree of conversion for self cured composites
60-75%
What is the degree of conversion for heat cured composites
> 90%
How does one light cure a composite
- Tip of light source must be close to restoration surface
- Light tip must not be contaminated (check for remnants)
- Cure for manufacturers recommended time
- Make sure there is no fanning and that curing spots overlap
- Each time the light is used check the required wavelength is output as this deteriorates with time
What can the depth of cure be affected by and why
Type of composite because when light hits, some of it is reflected scattered and absorbed; absorption is dependant on the composite shade so the darker the shade, the greater time required to cure
What are the issues using a UV light for curing
This uses benzoin methyl ether
- causes damage to cornea
- soft tissue burns
- limited depth of cure
What do all light curing composites contain
- alpha-di ketone (photoinitiator e.g. camphorquinone)
OR
- Amine activator (e.g. DHPT)
These are a source of free radicals which attack the double bonds within the matrix
What are the issues with quartz-tungsten halogen light curing units
they are bulky and so aren’t good for paediatrics and the bulb life decreases which means effective cooling is important; as the bulb deteriorates, the depth of cure may not be complete
What are the benefits of using a LED for light curation
- less lateral heat production
- long lasting light source
- requires low wattage
- typically cordless
- has a narrow emission spectrum as it is created for camphorquinone, this means it is energy efficient
- newer versions have an increased range of wavelength so other photoinitiators can be used
What are the issues with LEDs
- high cost
- low intensity
- increased exposure time
How do plasma-arc light curing units work
Uses xenon gas-ionisation; high intensity white light is filtered which decreases heat and allows emission of blue light
- this has a 1-3 second cure time which is rapid
What are the issues with plasma-arc light curing units
The rapid conversion of resin means there is high shrinkage stress and it is also very expensive to get bulbs for