In the last few years, several new posterior composites and light curing trends have been introduced that are intended to reduce the number of steps and save time when placing a posterior composite restoration. Bulk curing resin composites are now available that produce less shrinkage stress and can be light cured in up to 5 mm thick increments instead of the customary 2 mm thickness. Also, now that high output LED curing lights are available, this has created an expectation that teeth can be restored using just one large increment of composite in a shorter curing time. However, photo-curing of dental composites is governed by an array of complex interactions such as the light intensity, exposure time, photoinitiator system, initiator/light source spectral overlap, and the collective material optical properties. Consequently, light curing dental materials is not as simple as light on, and light off. This CE webinar will attempt to provide some insights into the complexities of photopolymerization and establish if the recent trend to bulk cure large composites in using short exposure times are realistic expectations, or just dreams that are too good to be true?

Learning Objectives:
• Understand many of the factors that affect the success of light-curing dental materials
• Understand the clinical implications of light curing
• Identify the practical strategies that will help ensure a successful clinical outcome   ( disclaimer, bio and commercial disclosure )