(Top) If adhesives shrink before application, the bonds mature evenly and the tooth and anti-bacterial seal are strengthened. (Above) If the adhesive shrinks, it pulls away from the dentin, making the tooth weaker and prone to cracks.
Lesson 4: Pulse Activation Photocuring
Decrease adhesive stresses though proper photocuring technique. Composites naturally shrink towards their strongest bonds during polymerization, starting when the adhesive is activated. In traditional dentistry, photocuring has been viewed as a convenient time saver; unfortunately, conventional photocuring techniques focus on speed to the detriment of bond strength. Traditional procedures allow 30% or more of the adhesive shrinkage to take place after application, which causes the bond to pull towards enamel and away from dentin. Because the dentin bonds never mature, the bond is fragile, and fails to act in a compliant manner during occlusion. This can cause cracks, leakage, and infection.Pulse Activation Photocuring teaches procedures for use when high C-factors can't be avoided. In-tooth shrinking can be reduced by beginning the polymerization reaction before the adhesive is applied– 90% to 95% of shrinkage can take place outside the mouth. The lesson includes protocols for:
- Z-100
- Heraclite
- AP-X
- Heliomolar
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