Tapered light probe with non-circular output for a dental light curing unit

摘要

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.