A pilot investigation of operator variability during intra-oral light curing.
OBJECTIVE
To test the hypothesis that operator experience influences the efficacy of light curing in a typical posterior intra-oral location. To investigate whether short cure cycles affect performance.


METHODS
A cross-sectional single-centre study designed to assess the efficacy of experienced and inexperienced operators when undertaking simulated intra-oral curing.


METHODS
An in vitro laboratory based investigation conducted in a dental school during 2001.


METHODS
A computer-based technique was used to monitor light intensity in a clinical simulation. Dentists and student operators were tested for their ability to cure a posterior restoration effectively. Relative light intensity was assessed against time for each operator and test run.


RESULTS
Experienced (qualified) operators produced more effective and consistent cure results than less experienced undergraduate students. Operator performance was not affected by variations in irradiation time.


CONCLUSIONS
This cross-sectional pilot investigation demonstrates that operator experience is a factor in successful clinical photo-curing of posterior restorations. Stable and accurate light guide positioning are required throughout the entire irradiation cycle to optimise intra-oral cure of light-activated restorations. Further investigations are planned to assess the potential of this novel method of assessment for use as a routine teaching aid in clinical practice.
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003188:Composite Resins / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000528:radiation effects; D016001:Confidence Intervals; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003793:Dental Restoration, Permanent; D003815:Dentists; D006801:Humans; D008027:Light; D008963:Molar; D015588:Observer Variation; D010865:Pilot Projects; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012815:Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D013335:Students, Dental; D013997:Time Factors
D003188:Composite Resins