Numerical Investigation for the Effect of TheraCal LC on the Temperature Distribution Inside the Pulp

Abstract

This study evaluated the thermal effect of TheraCal LC on pulpal temperature during light curing in Class I and II cavities. A mandibular first molar model was developed using COMSOL Multiphysics, with enamel, dentine, pulp and restorative material. Simulations were performed under physiological conditions at 37°C for cavities with 0.5 and 1 mm remaining dentine thickness, and temperature changes were analysed at 2 and 5 mm curing distances. The model was validated against two experimental studies. Results showed that without TheraCal LC, temperature rises were minimal and below the damage threshold. However, TheraCal LC significantly increased intrapulpal temperature, particularly at 0.5 mm dentine thickness, with rises exceeding 12°C. Shorter curing distances (2 mm) also increased temperatures, and in all cases with TheraCal LC, ΔT surpassed the critical 5.5°C threshold. These findings indicate that TheraCal LC poses a thermal risk to pulpal tissue, especially in deep cavities with minimal dentine thickness.