Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

What type of resin material is polymerized by photo initiators that are sensitive to light?

1. Self-curing resin

2. Light cured resin

3. Thermoplastic resin

4. Composite resin

The correct answer is: Light cured resin

Light cured resins are specifically designed to be polymerized through the action of light activation. This process involves photo initiators that become reactive when exposed to light, typically in the blue spectrum. When the light is applied, it triggers a chemical reaction that leads to the hardening of the resin material. This characteristic allows for precise control over the curing process, as the material can remain in a workable state until it is exposed to the light. Self-curing resin relies on a chemical reaction that occurs without the need for light, while thermoplastic resins can be softened and reshaped with heat but do not rely on light for curing. Composite resins, while they can often be light cured, are a broader category that includes materials with other components as well. Therefore, light cured resin is the most accurate answer, as it directly pertains to the mechanism of polymerization using photo initiators sensitive to light.