Abstract
Aims: To compare the shear bond strength (SBS) of composite bonded to dentin cured by three light curing units (LCUs), which are quartz tungsten halogen (QTH) and two types of light emitting diode (LED) machines. Materials and Methods: Buccal dentin of 90 upper premolars was exposed, prior to restorative procedure. Samples divided into 3 groups, restoration of each group cured by Astralis 5 [Austria], Top Light, [Taiwan] and Ultradent [USA]. Each group further subdivided into three subgroups. After bonding application, each subgroup of every group restored by one of 3 composites: Point 4™, Tetric and Degufill mineral. Composite applied and cured for 40 seconds. Samples thermocycled and loaded at tooth–composite interface. Results: Analysis of variance (ANOVA) with significance p < 0.05 followed by Duncan Multiple Range Test, showed that SBS of subgroups that cured by Ultradent (400 mW/cm2) was significantly higher than Astralis 5 (405 mW/cm2) and Top Light (141 mW/cm2). The SBS of Astralis 5 was significantly higher than Top Light. No significant differences found among subgroups those cured by same LCU. Conclusions: Shear bond strength of resin composite bonded to dentin is directly proportional with the light intensity. However, better result obtained by a high intensity LEDs compared with an equivalent intensity QTH–LCUs.
