sdj-10088

Evaluation of Light Curing Units and Dentists’ Knowledge About Photo Polymerization Techniques in Sulaimani Governmental Dental Clinics

* Mohammed A. Mahmood, ** Bestoon M. Faraj

* Kurdistan Board for Medical Specialties, Iraq. 

** Kurdistan Board for Medical Specialties and Department of Conservative Dentistry, College of Dentistry, University of Sulaimani, Sulaimani, Iraq. 

Submitted: 17/03/2019; Accepted: 30/05/2019; Published 01/06/2019

DOI: https://doi.org/10.17656/sdj.10088

Abstract

Objective: To measure the output intensity of light curing units (LCU) in governmental dental clinics of the Sulaimani governorate. To evaluate practitioners’ knowledge on light cure application.

Methods: Ninety-four dental units and eighty-eight dentists in the Sulaimani governorate were included in this research. Output intensity and diameter of tips of the dental LCU devices were measured. Two survey questionnaires were filled, one for the LCU and its maintenance, the other for evaluating the knowledge, attitude, and practice of the dentists. 

Results: Output power intensity results ranged from 50-2000W, with an average of 993W. The output intensity of 78% of the tested devices was found to be acceptable regarding the manufacturer instruction of the radiometers used (every intensity below the given range that given in the Result section is regarded as unusable or non-acceptable). The range of age in service of the devices was 1-12 years with a mean of 4.7 years. The average restorations performed in a week by a device was 17.8. Dentists had poor knowledge, attitude, and practice towards the maintenance of the LCU devices. 51% of the dentists were quite satisfied with the devices. 48.9% of the dentists reported that they don’t have an idea of LCU intensity.

Conclusions: Devices should be checked regularly for output intensity, light bulb efficiency, and composite build up. Dentists express poor knowledge, maintenance, and attitude toward LCUs. Educational programs are advisable and recommended.

Keywords: Light-cure intensity, Dentists knowledge.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Full Article - PDF

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