RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the impact of the distance between the light guide tip of the curing unit and material surface on the degree of conversion and Knoop microhardness of a composite resin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Circular samples were carried out of a methacrylate micro-hybrid resin-based composite and light cured at 0, 2 and 4 mm distance. Monomer conversion rate was measured using a Fourier-transform Raman spectrometer and Knoop hardness number was obtained using a microhardness tester on the top and bottom surfaces. Data were statistically analyzed by analysis of variance and Tukey's test (α=0.05). RESULTS: Overall, the increase of curing distance reduced the microhardness (p≤0.05), but did not influence the carbon double bond conversion rate (p>0.05) of the composite resin tested; and the top surface showed better properties compared to the bottom (p≤0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The light curing at distance can reduce mechanical properties and could affect long-term durability of the composite restorations. Thus, the use of a curing device with high irradiance is recommended.