Light Curing of Resin-Based Materials and the Dental Assistant’s Role: A Narrative Review and Practical Guide

Dental light-curing units (LCUs) are widely used across dental specialties. Dental assistants (DAs) frequently prepare, operate, disinfect, and maintain these devices, yet most published guidance targets dentists. This narrative review, based on searches of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar, synthesizes current evidence on light curing and translates it into practical guidance for DAs. It covers fundamental principles of photopolymerization, LCU technologies, light output measurement and monitoring, infection control, maintenance, curing techniques, ocular and thermal safety, and team training. Emphasis is placed on standardized chairside practices, including light-tip inspection, correct barrier placement, output monitoring, stable positioning, eye protection, and documentation. Available evidence reveals substantial variability in LCU performance, maintenance, and operator technique. However, clinical evidence directly linking specific curing practices to restoration durability remains limited, with most findings derived from laboratory, simulation, survey, and consensus studies. To support evidence-based practice, the review provides key recommendations, chairside checklists, a maintenance schedule, suggested team responsibilities, and troubleshooting guidance. Recommendations should be implemented in accordance with local scope-of-practice regulations, institutional policies, and dentist supervision. Incorporating DAs into structured, hands-on training may improve the consistency, quality, and safety of routine light-curing procedures.