Abstract

A self contained light source for curing light initiated resins used to coat teeth as veneers and fill cavities and chips in teeth in aesthetic or restorative procedures. The source includes an elongated container holding a battery and electronic compartment at one end and a light emitting window at the other. A plurality of closely space light emitters, typically light emitting diodes or laser diodes, are arrayed to direct light to a common focal point. The light is directed out of the container toward a tooth bearing the resin to be cured to a hard, stable state. The light emitters produce light in a region of the spectrum to which the resin curing initiators is sensitive, typically blue light. The light emitters are preferably mounted on concave edged printed circuit so that they are all oriented inwardly toward the focal point. Microlenses may be used with each light emitter to further concentrate light toward the focal point. Preferably, a light transparent barrier sleeve is placed over the light emitting end of the container and replaced between patients.