Influence of light intensity on polymerization shrinkage and integrity of restoration-cavity interface.

The results of this study showed that the use of high intensity curing light units negatively affected the integrity of the restoration-cavity interface in class V restorations This is explained by the high reaction rates of light curing resin composites. The interfacial integrity was better preserved with low light intensity as it extends the visco-elastic stage of the setting materials, thereby moderating the setting stress development. The ultimate polymerization shrinkages for both conditions were equal, which suggested equal degrees of conversion and thus equal material properties. The results may alleviate the trend in using higher intensity light curing units and in particular the development of units with laser beams in an attempt to further increase conversion rates.