CRA data show that different curing methods do not eliminate the problems of shrinkage, stress, or damage to the tooth due to resin curing.
From the theoretical standpoint, "soft start" cure modes such as ramp, step, and pulse may reduce stress compared to conventional or rapid curing. CRA research has shown, however, no significant differences between any curing modes, instead resin formulation is significant. Resins with lower shrinkage and/or modulus values exhibited lower stress in the tooth, but all resins tested still shrank 2 - 6%, caused stress in teeth, and produced white lines and/or cracks in the teeth around the margins.
Until non-shrinking resin formulations become available, it is unlikely that changing the curing methods alone will solve the stress related problems.
Click here to go to the May-June '99 CRA Newsletter report on resin polymerization problems.