Abstract: Objectives: The aim of this study is to compare the efficiency of two polymerization techniques (halogen curing – Astralis® 7 and plasma curing – Flipo®), with two orthodontic adhesive materials (Enlight®, a composite resin, and Fuji OrthoTM LC, a glass ionomer cement). Methods: The efficiency of the polymerization techniques was shown by two mechanical tests. The hardness test was carried out on the exposed and non-exposed surfaces using 10×4×3-mm samples, polymerized either by halogen curing (40 seconds) or by plasma curing (5 seconds). The three-point bending tests were carried out on 2×2×25-mm samples polymerized as above. The samples were kept 1 hr at room temperature, then for 24 hrs in distilled water at 37°C. Results: Whatever the polymerization technique used, the results are similar for hardness and flexion, with the exception of the hardness tests carried out after polymerization with the Flipo® light on the surface not directly exposed. Conclusion: In orthodontic practice, both polymerization techniques can be used. But a multibracket session can be long, and the reduction of time spent in the chair obtained by using plasma lamps seems to make this technique preferable.
