VISIBLE LIGHT CURING UNIT

Many dental materials are now cured or set by a visible light in the high intensity (blue) range. The visible light curing (VLC) technique has varied applications in dental materials, including pit and fissure sealants, resins, impression materials, and surgical dressings, to name only a few. Most hand-held VLC units (fig. 11-20) contain a quartz halogen lamp that produces a high-intensity light to induce curing (hardening). This allows the provider an unlimited amount of working time with the material. Some models have light tips that rotate to permit easy positioning. The high intensity light radiation emitted from the unit is capable of retinal injury from chronic ^exposure. The light should never be directed toward the eyes. Staff and patients should use protective glasses that match the unit's radiation output.

These units require minimal maintenance and adjustments. Clean the unit after each patient treatment following infection control guidelines. Read the manufacturer's instructions for specific requirements.

Figure 11-20.\Visible light curing unit.