Influence of shade and composition in the generation of heat during the dental composite photoactivation

The study evaluated the effect of shade and composition in the production of heat during the dental composite photoactivation. Filtek Z 250 and Esthet X in the shades A3 and B1 and Filtek Flow and Natural Flow in the shades A3 and B2 were used. The temperature was registered using a type-K thermocouple connected to a digital thermometer with an accuracy of 0,1°C. A chemically polymerized acrylic resin base was built as thermocouple guide and support for a dentin disk, obtained from bovine tooth to simulate the remaining dentin in the cavity. On the acrylic resin base was adapted a matrix made of silicone. A light source emitted by XL 2500 halogenic lamp unit was used for a photoactivation time of 20 seconds. Eight groups were established in agreement with the interaction materials and shades (n=10). Obtained values were submitted to ANOVA and the averages to Duncan's test (5%). The results showed that there was not statistical difference among the averages of the temperature increases in the same composite with different shades. There was statistical difference among the averages of the temperature increases in different composites in the same shades.