The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the temperature changes in the pulp chamber induced by various visible light-curing units during polymerization of a pulp-capping material.
Method:
Thirty extracted human molar teeth were sectioned horizontally for leaving a dentin layer (1 mm thickness) between pulp chamber and occlusal surface. A pulp-capping material (TheraCal) was applied on to the occlusal surface and light-cured with the selected curing units: Planmeca (1400 mW/cm2), Valo (1000 mW/cm2), Philips (1400 mW/cm2). Measurement of temperature changes in the pulp chamber during polymerization was performed with a J-type thermocouple. The data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD tests.
Result:
There were statistically significant differences between all groups (p<0.001). The highest temperature rise was observed from Planmeca and the lowest values were calculated from Philips light curing unit.
Conclusion:
It is concluded that; even though the light sources are same type, the differences between their designs can affect the temperature changes during polymerization.