Knowledge of dentists from Aracaju/SE regarding light-activation of bulk fill composites and depth of polymerization achieved in private and public health services

Rafhael Andrade Santos, Julie Nascimento Paiva Veiga, Márcia Luciana Carregosa Santana, Ana Cláudia Conceição Correia, André Luis Faria-e-Silva

This study evaluated the protocols of light-curing used by dentists in the city of Aracaju/SE (Brazil) and the depth of polymerization of a bulk fill composite achieved with theirs light-curing devices. Thirtythree dentists were randomly included in the study, while 15 were in health public service. The profile and knowledge of these clinicians regarding composite light-curing in posterior teeth and bulk fill composites were assessed. The external diameter of light-curing unit tips was measured with a digital caliper, and the brand and model of these devices was recorded. The clinicians performed class II MOD restorations in stone models with a bulk fill composite using their light-curing units, without any additional instruction, and the details about the light-curing protocol used was recorded. The depth of polymerization was measured by inserting a composite into a metallic matrix with 8 mm of depth, followed by the removal of unpolymerized material with a metallic spatula. Descriptive analyses of data were performed, and depth of polymerization achieved by units located in public and private services was compared by T-test and Fisher Exact test ( = 0.05). It was observed a low level of knowledge of dentists regarding bulk fill composites and light-curing, resulting in large variability of light-curing protocols. The depths of polymerization observed in public and private services were 3.1 and 3.3mm, respectively, without statistical differences between them. Only 10% of light-curing protocols yielded depth of polymerization of 4 mm. In conclusion, the light-curing units and techniques of light-curing used remains an important challenge to obtain proper polymerization of bulk fill composites.

Keywords: Dental curing lights. Composite resins. Permanent dental restoration.

How to cite: Santos RA, Veiga JNP, Santana MLC, Correia ACC, Faria-e-Silva AL. Knowledge of dentists from Aracaju/SE regarding light-activation of bulk fill composites and depth of polymerization achieved in private and public health services. J Clin Dent Res. 2018 Sept-Dec;15(3):136-49. DOI: https://doi.org/10.14436/2447-911x.15.3.136-149.oar

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