Effects of polymerization method on flexural and shear bond strengths of a fiber-reinforced composite resin

This study investigated the effects of indirect composite polymerization on the postcuring mechanical properties of a fiber-reinforced composite. An indirect composite seated on glass fibers preimpregnated with polymerized monomer was polymerized by 1) photoirradiation using a halogen-fluorescent polymerizing unit for 5 min, 2) method 1 plus secondary heating at 100°C for 15 min, 3) photoirradiation using a metal halide light unit for 60 s, or 4) preliminary polymerization using a halogen light unit for 20 s followed by method 3. After polymerization, the flexural and shear bond strengths of the fiber-reinforced composite were examined, as was the flexural strength of non-fiber-reinforced composite specimens polymerized using the same methods. Among non-fiber-reinforced composite specimens, flexural strength was lower for method 1 than for the other three methods; however, among fiberreinforced composite specimens, the four methods did not significantly differ in flexural strength or shear bond strength. Composite-fiber interface separation without breakage of the fiber after flexural strength testing was not observed in specimens polymerized by methods 2 or 4. In conclusion, use of a conventional unit for high-intensity light irradiation after preliminary irradiation, or light irradiation followed by secondary heating, is recommended for polymerization of composite material seated on polymerized glass fiber