Product Evaluation

With its large 12 mm lens, the durable VALO Grand covers a large area in a single, uniform cure

Patients squirm. Sectional bands block the light. A clinician’s hand moves slightly out of position. Less-than-ideal circumstances sometimes prevent a complete cure of a dental restoration, especially when working in the back of the mouth.

“Complete curing of posterior teeth can be challenging due to the small head of most curing lights,” Dr. Eric Van Zytveld told Dental Product Shopper. That’s exactly why Ultradent designed the VALO Grand with an extra-large 12 mm lens, and it’s one of the reasons why a team of DPS evaluators was eager to test the product in their practices for this evaluation.

The VALO Grand’s cordless wand provides optimal convenience and flexibility, and its convenient back activation button makes it is easy to use, according to Ultradent. “The buttons on both sides are a good addition,” shared Dr. Elizabeth Fleming, referring to the front and back activation buttons that allow for intuitive operation.

“The larger head size and the second activation button of the VALO Grand curing light make it the best light I have used,” Dr. Van Zytveld concluded.

Each light is precision milled from a single bar of high-quality aluminum for extreme durability, according to Ultradent. Calling it easy to hold, Dr. Leonard Tau said the light was a little heavy but was well-designed and constructed. The light operates on 2 rechargeable lithium ion phosphate batteries that deliver consistent high-energy power. Charles Kattuah, DDS, appreciated that the batteries could be changed and that they come with a spare set, but Dr. Sean Grady would like to see batteries that did not require removal to charge.

A few dentists commented that the design of the protective light shield could be improved, with one evaluator saying it needs to shield the operator’s eyes better. Dr. Linda Winter found that the barrier sleeves were a bit difficult to place over the light.

“The larger head size of the VALO Grand facilitates complete curing of large restorations,” shared Dr. Van Zytveld, adding that the light is large enough to fully cure most molars. With a larger head size and a 12 mm lens that is 50% larger than the other VALO lights, the Grand cures larger surface areas more quickly, according to Dr. Fleming. “The light improves curing efficiency and effectiveness [and] helps ensure I am adequately and completely curing my restorations,” added Dr. Van Zytveld.

“I liked the ability to adjust the power output and time of cure,” said Dr. Kattuah. Four powerful LEDs deliver light evenly over a broad spectrum, ensuring a uniform, long lasting cure, according to Ultradent. The VALO Grand has 3 curing modes—Standard (1000 mW/cm2), High Power Plus (1600 mW/cm2), and Xtra Power (3200 mW/cm2). “The light was excellent in its power and multiple modes,” shared Dr. Derek Noonan, who liked the speed of cure best, especially for children when a quick cure is needed. Two dentists said patients complained of heat from the light.

“The wide tip gives me confidence that a large surface area is being cured,” noted Dr. Jodi Lampert. “I like what I have read about the depth of cure capabilities. I feel confident the VALO is curing all the way down,” she added.

Although the lens is larger, the VALO Grand has a low-profile head, and its slim, ergonomic wand allows for easy access to all areas of the patient’s mouth, according to Ultradent. “The 90° tip facilitates better access in patients with limited opening,” stated Dr. Van Zytveld, but he added, “Access to second and third molars would be improved if the working length of the tip was longer.” Dr. Grady suggested, “A curved tip would be more convenient to reach all areas of the mouth,” while Dr. Abraham Jaskiel lauded what he described as very easy access. Dr. Winter suggested the head and neck of the light be designed to adjust to 30–45° lateral to the long axis. Because he normally uses a curing light with a cord, Dr. Tau said having a cordless curing light would enable him to potentially access areas some lights could not reach.

Calling it a good all-around curing light, Dr. Jaskiel said it made curing easy because it covered a broad area. Dr. Kattuah, who decided to purchase the VALO Grand after the evaluation period, concluded, “The overall quality of the light seems to be excellent.” Praising features such as durability, complete coverage of curing area, and the speed and depth of cure, this team of evaluators named the VALO Grand a recommended product.