evaluation of the effect of protective sleeve on output intensity of light emitting diode light cure units

aim: the purpose of this study was to compare the difference in the output intensity of light emitting diode (led) light cure (lc) devices with and without a protective sleeve and its clinical significance.  materials and methods: the output intensity of 152 lc units in dental offices across the state of odisha were examined. the collection of related information included an average number of exposures per day and the charging status. led radiometer (sdi ltd, vic, aus) was used for measuring output intensity.  results: out of all the 152 lc devices examined, 137 were found to emit light intensity above minimum baseline values when used with a protective sleeve. the decrease in output intensity, when used with a protective sleeve was statistically significant (p<0.05). 78 lc devices with direct current supply, maintained better intensity than battery operated ones. 74 battery operated lc devices showed statistically significant differences (p<0.05) in intensity output based on the number of exposures/day. devices that were being charged daily maintained significantly (p<0.05) better intensity output than those being charged once or twice a week. conclusion: led light cure devices can be safely used along with a protective sleeve to improve cross infection control without affecting its output intensity. battery operated led devices must be charged at least 3 times/ week to prevent a significant decrease in output intensity