OPTION 3

Key Concept:

 

ELAPSED TIME BETWEEN CURING OF THE COMPOSITE AND FINISHING AND POLISHING

•            Elapsed time may also have an effect on surface characteristics and resistance to leakage that develops.

•            Some advocate delaying the finishing of composite restorations for up to 24 hours because polymerization is incomplete at placement, although composite manufacturers recommend that finishing be accomplished shortly after placement.

•            Studies have shown that delayed finishing can actually increase marginal leakage and has no effect on surface characteristics compared with immediate finishing.

•            Also, delayed finishing has a minimal effect on hardness.

•            Thus, for all practical purposes, almost all composite restorations should be finished and polished shortly after placement during the same appointment, although the finishing should be delayed for approximately 15 minutes after curing.