The Four CORE™ Variables
3. Restoration characteristics and location Dental restorations can vary greatly in size, depth and location. Some restorations, in more difficult to reach locations in the mouth and/or in patients with a smaller opening, may not be easily reached by a given curing light. This is important as even slight movement from the proper 90° placement against the surface of the restoration can meaningfully reduce the actual amount of energy delivered to polymerize the resin used in the restoration, yet the light can continue to deliver the same amount of heat to the tooth. In addition, distance from the resin is important as some lights require much more time to deliver a given amount of energy at 6mm than is required at 2mm.