Abstract: Multi-wavelength dental light curing guns or devices are disclosed. The multi-wavelength dental light curing guns or devices include a user handle attached to a light source support. A first light source is mounted on the light source support and is operable to project a first light beam of a first wavelength along a first light path, the first wavelength being capable of initiating polymerization of a first photopolymerizable dental composition. A second light source is mounted on the light source support and is operable to emit a second light beam of a second wavelength along a second light path, the second wavelength being capable of initiating polymerization of a second photopolymerizable dental composition different than the first dental composition, wherein the first light path does not intersect the second light path.

Abstract: A storage and multi-positional display apparatus, particularly suited to dental equipment and materials, is disclosed. The apparatus includes a cover having individual rigid segments which are hinged together, with a storage tray secured to one of the segments. The apparatus can be transformed from a storage position wherein the segments are folded to form an enclosure surrounding the tray and protecting its contents, into one of many angled display positions wherein the tray is exposed. The angled positions mount the tray at an angular orientation best suited to the particular user performing a particular dental procedure, while the cover and tray provide for aseptic conditions and minimized cross-contamination of the dental equipment and material.

Abstract: A light probe and a method of using a light probe for curing dental resin in relatively small areas such as at the adhesive interface between a tooth and an orthodontic bracket are disclosed. The light probe is attachable to the curing gun and includes an optically transparent medium extending from a connection end to a discharge end. The medium is disposed at the discharge end such that only a thin ribbon of light is emitted. The cross-sectional area of the discharge end is substantially smaller than at the connection end, and the overall area of discharge is smaller than the input area. An edge of the discharge end of the light probe is placed against the surface of the tooth and light is emitted parallel to the surface of the tooth onto a plane of adhesive.

Abstract: A process for the fabrication of indirect dental restoratives includes the making of a first, pre-operative impression of a tooth to be restored using a first polyvinyl silicone (PVS) material disposed in a clear tray, followed by the preparation of the tooth. A second, final post-operative impression of the tooth is taken utilizing a second PVS material. A tooth model is then made by pouring a low viscosity and suitably rigid, third PVS material into the final impression. Prior to the complete setting of the low viscosity PVS material, a higher viscosity, fourth PVS material is applied onto the model PVS material to form a completed model with base. The model is then fitted into the pre-operative impression matrix made from the first PVS material. Layers of composite are packed onto the impression in the clear matrix.

Abstract: A light shield for a dental composite curing gun which can be easily snapped on and off of a probe of the gun is provided. The shield includes a tinted, transparent main body which absorbs certain components of light reflected from a tooth surface being restored, thereby enabling the operator to have a complete field of vision, while protecting the operator from harmful and distracting reflections. The snap-on attachment mechanism includes first and second deformable legs having a receiving notch formed therebetween, such that the shield can be pushed on to and pulled from the probe by deforming the legs. The entire shield and snap-on connection mechanism are manufactured from a unitary piece of material which can be completely sterilized.