Color dye for identification of incompletely cured composite resins

Staining ability of herbal tea preparations on a nano-filled composite restorative material - an in-vitro study

Background: Discoloration of tooth-colored restorations due to various factors is one of the principal causes behind the failure of aesthetics. There has been an surge in the consumption of herbal beverages in recent times and the dietary factors play a potential role in the discoloration tooth-coloured restorations. This study was done to juxtapose the staining ability of green tea (GT), moringa tea (MT), and hibiscus tea (HT) on a nano-filled composite restorative material. Methods: The study was conducted in-vitro on composite samples prepared using moulds. 112 discs were prepared from Filtek TM Z350XT composite using a brass mould lined with mylar strips. Samples were divided into GT, MT, HT, and artificial saliva (AS) groups and immersed in freshly prepared beverages for 15 minutes each day for 45 days. Digital reflectance spectrophotometer was utilized to record color at baseline, 30, and 45 days. Repeated-measures ANOVA with a post-hoc Bonferroni test was used to compare groups within each group. ANOVA with a post-hoc Games Howell test was used to compare mean differences in ΔE among the groups. Results: Maximum discoloration was observed in the GT, followed by HT and MT, with the least being in the AS group at the end of 30 and 45 days (P<0.001 and P<0.001) respectively. Conclusions: The universal nano-filled composite material showed clinically detectable discoloration when exposed to Green Tea, Hibiscus Tea, and Moringa Tea which increased with time. Herbal beverages have the potential to cause discoloration of the composite resin which is often the choice of material for anterior aesthetic restorations.

Bleaching Effect of Ozonized Substances on Resin Composite: A New Potentiality for Ozone Therapy in Dentistry

Composite resins are commonly used in dentistry for direct restorations. The color stability of these materials still represents a major concern for both the clinician and the patient. In recent years, ozone therapy has been extensively used in dentistry to manage wounds healing, dental caries, oral lichen planus, gingivitis and periodontitis, halitosis, osteonecrosis of the jaw, post-surgical pain, plaque and biofilms, root canal treatment, dentin hypersensitivity, temporomandibular joint disorders, and teeth whitening. To date, several studies have evaluated the bleaching effect exerted by ozone on natural teeth, but no studies have been conducted to determine the effect on the color of composite resins. The aim of the present study is to determine whether ozonized oils/gels could determine a color change on composite resin. A total of 40 discs of an A3 shade restorative composite were divided into two groups, respectively exposed to a pigmentation treatment consisting of 10 applications of 10 min each of a 1% chlorhexidine-based gel (trial group) and to storage into physiological solution (control group). The samples of both groups were respectively subdivided into four subgroups which underwent four different protocols, three of which were based on the exposure to different ozonized products and the latter representing the control. A colorimetric analysis with the CIELAB method was conducted with the following timing: after 24 h of storage in physiological solution (before the experimental procedures) (T0), after the subdivision into groups A and B (corresponding to the pigmentation for samples of group A and storage in physiological solution for samples of group B) (T1), and after subdivision into subgroups 1–4 (corresponding to the application of the ozonized products vs. control) (T2). No statistically significant difference was found between the samples at T0. The 20 samples of group A, exposed to the colorant agent, underwent a color change from T0 to T1, whereas the 20 samples exposed to the physiologic solution did not undergo any significant color change. A positive but moderate influence was assessed for E and L values, whereas no significant change occurred for A and B values. Therefore, dental ozonized oils/gels could be valuable in restorative dentistry as bleaching agents of resin composites exposed to discoloration, an alternative to the traditional hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, but further studies are required to confirm these findings.

Discoloration of different esthetic restorative materials: A spectrophotometric evaluation

Objective:

A crucial property of esthetic restorative materials is their long-term color stability. The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the color stability of esthetic restorative materials (one microfilled flowable composite, one nanofilled composite, one nanoybrid composite, one microfilled composite, and one nanoybrid ormocer-based composite) after surface roughening with cola and exposure to different staining solutions (coffee and red wine).

Materials and Methods:

All materials were polymerized into silicone rubber rings (2 mm × 6 mm × 8 mm) to obtain 150 specimens identical in size. Seventy-five specimens of Group A were first exposed to cola for 24 h, and then samples were immersed in coffee or red wine over a 28-day test period. A colorimetric evaluation, according to the CIE L*a*b* system, was performed at 7, 14, 21, 28 days. Shapiro–Wilk test and Kruskal–Wallis analysis of variance were applied to assess significant differences among restorative materials. Means were compared with Scheffe's multiple comparison test at the 0.05 level of significance.

Results:

Specimens of Group A showed higher variations when compared with Group B's specimens (P < 0.05). After 28 days, the immersion protocols caused a clinically perceivable color change for all materials tested (P < 0.05). CeramX Universal and Admira Fusion showed the lowest ΔE variations (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Staining beverages caused significant discolorations for all the materials tested. The first exposure to cola enhanced the subsequent staining with coffee or red wine. Nanohybrid composites reported the lowest color variations.

The evaluation of surface sealants' effect on the color stability of Nano-hybrid composite after polishing with One-Step system (in-vitro)

Background

The clinical use of composite resins has increased substantially over the past few years due to increased esthetic demands by patients, improvements in formulation, and simplification of bonding procedures. An alternative for preventing or reducing composite discoloration is using of composite surface sealant. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of surface sealant on color-stability of Nano-hybrid composites after polishing with one-step system.

Material and Methods

56 disk-shaped specimens (10*2 mm) of a Nano-hybrid composite resin (VOCO,Cuxhaven,Germany) were prepared. The specimens were randomly divided in to 2 groups of 28 specimens each. The surfaces of specimens were polished with One-step system (Dimanto,VOCO,Germany ). one group of specimens assigned as control group and received no more surface treatment .surface sealant (PermaSeal,Ultradent,USA) was applied on the surface of specimens of the other group as experimental group .specimens were stored in Ringer’s solution for 24 hours at 37oC. The specimens were subjected to artificial aging with thermocycling method between coffee solution at 55°C and Ringer’s solution at 5°C for 3000 cycles. CIE L*a*b color coordinates were established using a spectrophotometer for each specimen. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

Results

After aging in both groups, color changing was significantly different (p<0.05) and clinically unacceptable (ΔE> 3.3) and there was no significant difference between the two groups in ΔE.

Conclusions

Surface sealant was not effective in improving color stability.

Key words:Surface-penetrating Sealant, Color Stability, Nano-hybrid composites.

Effect of preheat repetition on color stability of methacrylate- and silorane-based composite resins

Background. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of preheating methacrylate- and silorane-based composite resins on their color stability up to 40 times at 55‒60°C.

Methods. Seventy-six methacrylate and silorane-based composite resin samples, with a diameter of 10 mm and a height of 2 mm, were divided into 4 groups (n=19). After the samples were prepared, their color parameters were determined using a reflective spectrophotometer. The composite resin samples were separately stored in a solution of tea for 40 consecutive days. Then the samples underwent a color determination procedure again using a spectrophotometer and color changes were recorded. Finally two-way ANOVA was used to study the effect of composite temperature on its staining (P<0.05). Independent-samples t-test was used to evaluate changes in conversion rates of preheated composite resin samples compared to non-heated samples at P=0.005 and P=0.029 for silorane-based and Z250 composite resin samples, respectively.

Results. Both composite resin type (P=0.014) and preheating (P<0.001) had significant effects on ΔE.

Conclusion. Repeated preheating of methacrylate- and silorane-based composite resin samples, up to 55‒60°C for 40 rounds, resulted in more color changes compared with unheated composite resin samples. After storage in a solution of tea the color change rate in the composite resin samples of silorane-based was higher than the Z250 composite resin samples.

Curing effectiveness of single-peak and multi-peak led light curing units on tpo-containing resin composites with different chromatic characteristics

This study evaluated the surface microhardness of Lucirin-TPO (TPO) containing resin based composite (RBC) cured with three light-emitting diode (LED) light curing units (LCUs) (two single-peak LED and one multi-peak LED), and two different energy density (ED) (8 J/cm² and 16 J/cm²). Ninety specimens (8 mm wide and 2 mm thick) (n=5), were prepared with three different shades: translucent (T), A2 dentin (A2d), and A4 dentin (A4d). Specimens were subjected to micro-hardness Vickers measurements (Vickers Hardness Number, VHN) on both top and bottom surfaces. Hardness ratio (rHV) was also calculated. Data were analyzed using multifactorial ANOVA and Bonferroni tests (<=0.05). Results indicated that higher ED performed better than lower ED. Multi-peak LED achieved higher VHNs and rHV than single-peak LED when curing a TPO-containing RBC. A4d invariably achieved lower rHV and VHN than T and A2d. Single-peak LED achieved comparable VHNs and rHVs with multi-peak LED only curing A2d and T shades with 16J/cm².

Spectrophotometric analysis of crown discoloration following the use of silver nanoparticles combined with calcium hydroxide as intracanal medicament

Background

Optimal antibacterial efficacy of intracanal medicaments containing silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) has been well documented. However, concerns remain regarding the effect of Ag-NPs on tooth color. This study aimed to assess the effects of calcium hydroxide (CH) mixed with Ag-NPs as intracanal medicaments on tooth color. The effect of location of application of medicament on the degree of discoloration was evaluated as well.

Material and Methods

Fifty extracted single-rooted, single-canal human teeth with straight roots, no caries, no cracks or fractures were collected and accessed. After cleaning and shaping of the root canals, the teeth were randomly divided into two experimental groups (n=20) with CH and CH plus Ag-NPs as intracanal medicaments and a control group of saline (n=10). Experimental groups were randomly divided into two equal subgroups of A, where medicament was applied below the cemento enamel junction (CEJ) and B where the medicament was applied to the root canal and pulp chamber. Color change (ΔE) was assessed using a spectrophotometer in CIELAB system at five time points of beforemedicaments application (T0), immediately medicaments placement (T1), one week (T2), one month (T3) and three months (T4) after the application of medicaments. Data were analyzed using two-way and three-way ANOVA.

Results

Color change in Ag-NPs plus CH and CH groups was not significantly different at any time point (P=0.23). Increased exposure time in both groups did not increase the ΔE (P >0.05). Significant differences were noted in ΔE between subgroups A and B (P<0.05).

Conclusions

Addition of Ag-NPs to CH caused no significant change in tooth color compared to the application of CH alone. However, its use must be limited to the root canal space only.

Key words:Silver nanoparticles, color change, calcium hydroxide, spectrophotometry, intracanal medicament.

Color stability of esthetic restorative materials: a spectrophotometric analysis

Objective: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the color stability of different restorative materials (one microfilled composite, one nanofilled composite, one nanohybrid composite and one Ormocer-based composite) after exposure to different staining solutions (coffee, coca-cola and red wine).

Material and methods: All materials were polymerized into silicon rings (2 mm ×6 mm ×8 mm) to obtain specimens identical in size. Thirty cylindrical specimens of each material were prepared. They were immersed in staining solutions over a 28-day test period. A colorimetric evaluation according to the CIE L*a*b* system was performed by a blind trained operator at 7, 14, 21, 28 days of the staining process. The Shapiro–Wilk test and Kruskal–Wallis ANOVA were applied to assess significant differences among restorative materials. The paired t-test was applied to test which CIE L*a*b* parameters significantly changed after immersion in staining solutions.

Results: All restorative materials showed clinically perceptible color differences after immersion in coffee. L* and b* values showed the highest variability. Coca cola and red wine did not influence the color stability for all restorative materials except for Filtek Supreme XTE.

Conclusions: Coffee caused a significant color change in all types of tested composite resins. Filtek Supreme XTE demonstrated alone a staining susceptibility to red wine; no other significant differences among the materials were demonstrated. Long-term exposure to some food dyes (coffee in particular) can significantly affect the color stability of modern esthetic restorative materials regardless of materials’ different composition.

The effect of mouth rinses on the color stability of sonicfill and a nanohybrid composite

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 4 mouth rinses on the color stability of two different resin composites.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A2 shade sonic-activated bulk fill material SonicFill (Kerr) and conventional nanohybrid composite Filtek Z550 (3M ESPE) were used. Forty disc-shaped specimens (10 mm x 2 mm) were fabricated for both composites and finished using 400-grit SiC paper and polished. After polishing and immersing in distilled water for 24h all specimens were subjected to color measurements. The baseline color values (L*, a*, b*) of each specimen were measured with a colorimeter. Following baseline measurement each composite group was divided into 5 groups: Oral-B Pro Expert Clinic Line Alcoholfree (Oral-B) group, Listerine Tooth Defense Rinse (Listerine) group, Pharmol Zn Mouth rinse (Çözümilaç) group, Nilera Mouth rinse (Nilera) group and Distilled water (control) group. The specimens were incubated in mouth rinses (20 ml) at 37°C for 12 hours and subjected to color measurement. Two-way ANO VA was used for statistical analysis (p<0.05).

RESULTS

SonicFill showed significantly higher discoloration when exposed to Oral-B Pro Expert Clinic Line Alcohol-free, Listerine Tooth Defense Rinse and Pharmol Zn Mouth rinse. The color differences of two resin composites were not statistically significant for distilled water and Nilera Mouth rinse.

CONCLUSION

Within the limits of this study it can be concluded that the SonicFill showed higher discoloration than nanohybrid resin composite Filtek Z550.

Surface roughness and color change of a composite: influence of beverages and brushing

This study evaluated the influence of beverages and brushing on the surface roughness(SR) and color change(∆E) of a composite resin.For this, 120-disks(10 mm×2 mm) of composite resin(Filtek-Z250) were prepared and polished. Initials SR(Ra-μm) and color(CIELab-system) were measured with rugosimeter and spectrophotometer; specimens were divided into four groups(red wine, soft drink, sugar cane spirit, or artificial saliva=control) and three subgroups(without brushing; brushed with Colgate or with Close-Up). Specimens were immersed in the beverage 5×/day, for 5', over 30 day, being two subgroups brushed(120 strokes/day). Color was measuredat 15th day, 30th day and after repolishment; SR at 30th day. ∆E-values were statistically different after immersion in the beverages(p<0.05). Red wine promoted the highest alteration, followed by soft drink=sugar cane spirit and finally saliva. At 30th day, specimens exhibited ∆E higher than 15th day; after repolishing, ∆E was similar to 15th day. Beverages and brushing negatively influenced the SR. Therefore, ∆E and SR can be influenced by beverages and brushing.

Development of a low-color, color stable, dual cure dental resin

Dual-cure (DC) resins are mainly used as cements due to high initial color (generally yellow) and large color shift (ΔE*) after polymerization as compared to light-cured resins. However, even as cements, this color shift is clinically unacceptable, especially when used to cement thin veneers.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a novel DC initiator system with both lower initial color (less yellow, i.e., whiter) and smaller ΔE*.

METHODS

The effect of using an allyl thiourea (T)/cumene hydroperoxide (CH) self-cure (SC) initiator system in combination with a photo-co-initiator, p-octyloxy-phenyl-phenyl iodonium hexafluoroantimonate (OPPI), in a commercial DC resin cement (PermaFlo DC, Ultradent Products, Inc.) was investigated. Initial color and ΔE* were assessed for 6 weeks in vitro under accelerated aging conditions (75°C water bath). Rockwell15T hardness was used to assess degree of cure (DoC) and the three-point bending test was used to assess mechanical properties.

RESULTS

PermaFlo DC (control) was significantly harder than all experimental groups without OPPI but had up to three times higher initial color and four times greater color shift (ΔE*=27 vs. 8). With OPPI, hardness in the experimental groups increased significantly and several were comparable to the controls. Initial color and ΔE* increased slightly (ΔE*=9), but was still 3 times less than that of PermaFlo DC. DC samples containing OPPI had comparable modulus and ultimate transverse strengths to those of the controls.

CONCLUSIONS

DC resins that use the T/CH initiator system are weaker but have extremely low color and ΔE*. The addition of OPPI increases DoC and mechanical properties to clinically acceptable levels and maintains extremely low color and ΔE*.

SIGNIFICANCE

With this novel initiator system, DC resins potentially can now have comparable color and color stability to light-cure resins and be used in broader esthetic dental applications to improve color stability and reduce shrinkage stress in restorative composites.

Influence of staining solutions and whitening procedures on discoloration of hybrid composite resins

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to evaluate the color stability and water uptake of two hybrid composite resins polymerized in two different conditions after exposure to commonly consumed beverages. In addition, the effect of repolishing and bleaching on the stained composite was evaluated.

METHODS

Eighty specimens (12 mm × 12 mm × 3 mm) were made from two hybrid composite resins of shade A2. Forty specimens of each composite were divided into two groups (n = 20 per each) according to the curing method used (hand light cure HLC or oven light cure OLC). Then each group (HLC or OLC) was sub-divided randomly into four sub-groups (n = 5), which were immersed for 60 days in different beverages (distal water, coffee, tea and pepsi) and incubated at 37°C. Water uptake was measured during this time and followed by measurement of color difference (ΔE) by using a spectrophotometer. After complete staining, repolishing (grit 4000 FEPA at 300 rpm under water) and bleaching (40% hydrogen peroxide bleaching gel) were conducted. The repolished and bleached specimens were submitted to new color measurements.

RESULTS

Color value of the specimens immersed in tea displayed the highest statistically significant (p < 0.05) mean color difference (ΔE) compared to other beverages, whereas the ΔE value of pepsi was significantly lower than the others. After staining of the composite resins, both the bleaching and repolishing were able to reduce the ΔE value.

CONCLUSIONS

All beverages used affected the color stability of tested composite resins. The effect of beverages on color change of composites depends on type of beverage and water uptake value of resins used. A superior whitening effect was obtained with repolishing technique compared to bleaching.

Effect of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages on color stability and surface roughness of resin composites: An in vitro study

Background:

Consumption of certain beverages may affect the esthetic and physical properties of the resin composite, thereby undermining the quality of restorations.

Aim:

To analyze the effect of three beverages (Whiskey, Coca-Cola, and Nimbooz) on color stability and surface roughness of two different types of resin composites at various time intervals in vitro.

Materials and Methods:

A methacrylate-based nanofilled composite and a silorane-based microhybrid composite were used. Each material was randomly divided into four equal subgroups of 10 samples each according to the beverages used (Whiskey, Coca-Cola, Nimbooz, and Distilled water). The samples were immersed in each beverage for 10 minutes each day for 56 days. Color change and surface roughness measurements were noted at the baseline — the seventh, fourteenth, twenty-eighth, and fifty-sixth day.

Statistical Analysis Used:

RANOVA and Bonferroni tests were used to find the difference in color change and surface roughness in the two resin composites when immersed in different beverages. The Pearson Correlation test was carried out to test if any correlation existed between color change and surface roughness.

Results:

Silorane-based resin composites were more stable in different beverages over time.

Conclusion:

The effect of interaction of different resin composites, various beverages, and time depended on a multitude of factors.

Color stability, surface roughness and microhardness of composites submitted to mouthrinsing action

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of mouth rinse solutions on color stability, surface roughness and microhardness of two composite resins.

Material and Methods

Fifty test specimens of each composite (Filtek Z250 and Z350; 3M ESPE) were made using a teflon matrix (12x2 mm). Color, surface roughness and Knoop microhardness baseline measurements of each specimen were made and specimens (n=10) were immersed in 5 mouth rinse solutions: G1: distilled water (control), G2: Plax Classic, G3: Plax alcohol-free; G4: Periogard, and G5: Listerine. Final measurements of color, roughness and microhardness were performed and the results submitted to statistical analysis (2-way ANOVA, Bonferroni's test; p<0.05).

Results

The most significant color change was observed for Z250 when immersed in Listerine (p<0.05). Z350 showed greater color change when immersed in Plax alcohol-free (p<0.05), but with no significant difference for Listerine (p>0.05). With regard to roughness, both composites showed significant changes when immersed in Listerine in comparison with Plax alcohol-free (p<0.05). Microhardness of Z350 was shown to be significantly changed when the composite was immersed in Plax alcohol-free (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Composite changes depended on the material itself rather than the mouth rinse solution used.

Effect of 3-year water storage on the performance of one-step self-etch adhesives applied actively on dentine

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of the application method on the immediate and 3-year resin-dentine bond strength (μTBS) and nanoleakage (NL) for 3 one-step self-etch adhesives (Adper Prompt L-Pop; Clearfil S(3) Bond and Xeno III).

METHODS

The occlusal enamel of 42 human molars were removed to expose a flat dentine surface. The adhesives were applied under inactive or active application. After light-curing (600mW/cm(2) for 10s), composite buildups were constructed incrementally and sectioned to obtain bonded sticks (0.8mm(2)) to be tested in tension immediately or after 3 years of water storage of water storage. For NL, 2 bonded sticks from each tooth at each time were coated with nail varnish, placed in silver nitrate and polished down with SiC paper. The μTBS data was submitted to a two-way repetead mesures ANOVA and Tukey's test for each adhesive (α=0.05).

RESULTS

The active application showed higher immediate and 3-year μTBS than the inactive application (p<0.05). An increase in the silver nitrate deposition was seen for all conditions after 3 years; however this was more pronounced for all materials under inactive application (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The active application improves the immediate bonding performance of the adhesive systems. Reductions of the bond strength were observed for all materials after 3 years, however reduced degradation rate was observed when the materials are applied actively in dentine.

Effect of staining solutions and repolishing on color stability of direct composites

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to assess the color change of three types of composite resins exposed to coffee and cola drink, and the effect of repolishing on the color stability of these composites after staining.

Materials and Methods

Fifteen specimens (15 mm diameter and 2 mm thick) were fabricated from microhybrid (Esthet-X; Dentsply and Filtek Z-250; 3M ESPE) and high-density hybrid (Surefil; Dentsply) composites, and were finished and polished with aluminum oxide discs (Sof-Lex; 3M ESPE). Color of the specimens was measured according to the CIE L*a*b* system in a reflection spectrophotometer (PCB 6807; BYK Gardner). After baseline color measurements, 5 specimens of each resin were immersed in different staining solutions for 15 days: G1 - distilled water (control), G2 - coffee, G3 - cola soft drink. Afterwards, new color measurement was performed and the specimens were repolished and submitted to new color reading. Color stability was determined by the difference (∆) between the coordinates L*, a*, and b* obtained from the specimens before and after immersion into the solutions and after repolishing.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference (ANOVA, Tukey's test; p>0.05) among the ∆ values for the different types of composites after staining or repolishing. For all composite resins, coffee promoted more color change (∆>3.3) than distilled water and the cola soft drink. After repolishing, the ∆ values of the specimens immersed in coffee decreased to clinically acceptable values (∆<3.3), but remained significantly higher than those of the other groups.

Conclusions

No significant difference was found among composite resins or between color values before and after repolishing of specimens immersed in distilled water and cola. Immersing specimens in coffee caused greater color change in all types of composite resins tested in this study and repolishing contributed to decrease staining to clinically acceptable ∆ values.

Bond Strength and Quality of the Hybrid Layer of One-step Self-etch Adhesives Applied with Agitation on Dentin

Vigorous application on the dentin surface is an excellent tool capable of improving the immediate performance of simplified self-etch adhesive systems.

Effect of LED Light-curing on the Relative Hardness of Tooth-colored Restorative Materials

The use of high intensity LED curing units will result in the polymerization of tooth-colored restoratives using shorter times.

Color stability of resin composites after immersion in different drinks

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the discoloration of two nanohybrids, two microhybrids, and a posterior composite resin restorative material upon exposure to different drinks--namely tea, cola, coffee, red wine, and water. The colors of all specimens before and after storage in the solutions were measured by a colorimeter based on CIE Lab system, and the color differences thereby calculated. Data were analyzed by two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's HSD test. According to ANOVA, the restorative material, staining agent, and their interaction were found to play a statistically significant role (P = 0.0001) in color change. Among the staining agents, water consistently showed the lowest deltaE* value for all materials, whereas red wine showed the highest deltaE* value. In other words, for all the materials tested, their color change in staining agents ranked in this increasing order: water < cola < tea < coffee < red wine. In terms of comparison among the five restorative materials, Filtek P60 and Z250 were observed to manifest less color change than the nanohybrids and Quadrant LC.

Changes in surface characteristics of dental resin composites after polishing

The objectives of this study were (1) to determine in vitro changes in surface roughness and color of dental resin composites after application of three finishing and polishing systems; (2) to evaluate the difference in color stability after immersion in a dye solution after polishing; and (3) to evaluate the effects of surface condition, especially roughness, on measured color depending on the color measuring geometries of specular component excluded (SCE) and specular component included (SCI). Color and surface roughness (R(a)) of resin composites of four brands of A2 shade and one brand of Yellow Enamel shade were measured after polymerization, after polishing with Enhance (Dentsply), Sof-Lex (3M ESPE), or Super-Snap (Shofu) composite finishing and polishing systems. Color was also measured after immersion in 2% methylene blue solution. Color was measured according to the CIELAB color scale. Color changes (DeltaE*(ab)) after polishing/staining and by the measuring geometry were calculated by the equation; DeltaE*(ab) = [(DeltaL*)(2) + (Deltaa*)(2) + (Deltab*)(2)](1/2). Ra value was measured with a surface roughness tester. DeltaE*(ab) and DeltaL* values after polishing and after staining varied among polishing systems when measured with SCE geometry. Composites polished with Super-Snap and Sof-Lex systems showed higher DeltaE*(ab) and DeltaL* values than those polished with Enhance polishing system with SCE geometry. DeltaE*(ab) and DeltaL* values between specimens with different surface conditions measured with SCE geometry were significantly higher than those with SCI (p < 0.01). Changes in R(a) value after polishing was insignificant in most cases.

The effect of surface finishing and storage solutions on the color stability of resin-based composites

BACKGROUND

The authors tested the hypothesis that surface-finishing treatments and the type of storage solutions significantly affected the staining of resin-based composites, or RBCs, and unfilled resins, or URs.

METHODS

Fifty-four RBC and 54 UR disks were polymerized through a polyester film strip (Mylar, DuPont, Wilmington, Del.) and polished in one of three groups: 1-micrometer aluminum oxide, 15-microm diamond plate and no treatment (polyester film). All specimens were immersed in water for two days and then in coffee, cola or red wine for seven more days at 37 C. The authors recorded tristimulus color measurements before the immersions; after one and two days in water; and after one, two, three and seven days in the storage solutions.

RESULTS

Most of the color changes occurred between day 2 in water and day 7 in the staining solution. Analysis of variance showed that the finishing treatment and storage solution significantly influenced the overall color change (deltaE), and interactions occurred between the finishing treatment and the storage solution (P < .0001) for both materials. RBC specimens generally exhibited greater color changes than did UR specimens. The polyester film finishing exhibited the greatest amount of color change, while the diamond finishing exhibited the least amount of color change. Immersion in wine caused the greatest color change for both materials; cola and coffee resulted in the smallest color change for RBC and UR specimens, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Finishing treatments and storage solutions significantly affect the surface staining of RBC materials. Polyester film finishing and red wine produced the greatest color change after seven days for RBC specimens.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Clinicians should remove the polyester film-finished surface and advise patients that drinking wine could intensify surface staining on RBC restorations.

Celluloid strip-finished versus polished composite surface: difference in surface discoloration in microhybrid composites

The aim of this study was to compare the surface discoloration of polished and celluloid strip-finished composite surfaces in microhybrid type composites and to determine whether or not the discoloration of a celluloid strip-finished composite surface is reduced if oxygen inhibition on the surface can be prevented. The composite surfaces were celluloid-strip finished (group 1), polished (group 2), or celluloid-strip finished under nitrogen gas purging (group 3). Z100, Spectrum, and Aelitefil were used as the test materials. After each surface treatment, the samples were stored in 37 degrees C distilled water for 24 h and placed in a disclosing solution (0.2% Erythrosin, pH 7.0) for 7 days in the dark. A computer controlled spectrophotometer was used to determine the CIELAB co-ordinates (L*, a*, b*). For each composite, the degree of discoloration among the groups was compared with a one-way ANOVA test. A Dunnett's t-test was then performed to compare the colour change in group 1 with that of group 2 or group 3. In all materials, there were no statistical differences in the surface discoloration between group 1 and group 2. In the Aelitefil and Spectrum test materials, the samples in group 3 showed a lower level of discoloration than the those in group 1. In Z100, there was no statistical difference. In microhybrid composites, there was no difference in surface discoloration between celluloid strip-finished and the polished surface. Nitrogen gas purging during the polymerization process on the celluloid strip-finished composite surface might be useful for reducing the discoloration celluloid strip-finished surface in microhybrid composites.

Influence of specimen diameter on the relationship between subsurface depth and hardness of a light-cured resin composite

In pilot studies of the relationship between subsurface depth and hardness of a light-cured resin composite, it was found that the resin composite was softer at a depth of 0.5 mm than at, for example, a depth of 1.0 mm. It is possible that the increase in hardness at intermediate subsurface depths compared with the hardness at small depths is due to the heat of polymerization, causing a greater increase in temperature at intermediate depths than at small depths. As the temperature rise increases with volume of the test specimen, it was hypothesized that the increase in hardness would increase with the diameter of the irradiated specimen. The hardness of a resin composite was measured as a function of subsurface depth for cylindrical specimens of 3, 4, and 6 mm diameter. It was found that the resin composite was softer at 0.5 mm than at 1.0-1.5 mm depth independent of specimen diameter. Possible explanations are oxygen inhibition of polymerization and high rate of cure of material at small subsurface depth. It was also found that, corresponding with increasing specimen diameters, the specimens became significantly softer at depths of 3.0 mm, 3.5 mm, and 4.0 mm, respectively. The heat production and reflection of light from the walls of the molds may explain the latter, but not the former finding.

Polymer structure of a light-cured resin composite in relation to distance from the surface

The aim of the investigation was to study the polymer structure of a light-cured resin composite in relation to the distance from the irradiated surface. Ten cylinders (4 x 8 mm) of composite were light-cured in a mold at 580 mW cm-2 for 40 s. The cylinders were expressed from the mold and, after 1 wk of dry storage at 37 degrees C, embedded in dental stone. Grinding parallel to the long axis of the cylinders on carborundum paper exposed the resin composite. The Wallace hardness in relation to distance from the irradiated surface was measured before and after 1 d of ethanol storage. Before ethanol storage and at distances from the surface of 0.5-3.5 mm, no difference in hardness was recorded. The ethanol storage gave rise to a softening of the resin composite. The softening recorded at 3.0-3.5 mm was significantly more pronounced than the softening taking place at 0.5-2.5 mm. This result was explained by a slower polymerization occurring at the greater distances from the irradiated surface, resulting in a polymer with reduced crosslink density.

Modeling of the viscoelastic behavior of dental light-activated resin composites during curing

OBJECTIVE

Three models consisting of springs and dashpots were investigated to describe the viscoelastic behavior of a commercial light-activated restorative composite during curing.

METHODS

Stress-strain data on Z100 were recorded by means of a dynamic test method performed on a universal testing machine. The model was tested by matching its response to experimental data and the material parameters, E (Young's modulus) and eta (viscosity), associated with the model were calculated.

RESULTS

The universal testing machine generated reliable stress-strain data on the fast curing, light-activated resin composite during curing. The high polymerization rate of Z100 had a negative effect on the viscous flow capability of the material. A predictive model of the viscoelastic behavior of Z100 during curing was carried out, using the Maxwell model for the initial 3 min in the curing process and the Kelvin model for the remainder of the process.

SIGNIFICANCE

Dental researchers analyzing shrinkage stress problems by mathematical modeling can obtain a good quantitative estimate of the shrinkage stress development of Z100 before the restoration is actually made.

Curing-light intensity and depth of cure of resin-based composites tested according to international standards

BACKGROUND

Several factors control the light curing of a resin-based composite: the composition of the composite, the shade of the composite, the wavelength and bandwidth of the curing light, the distance of the light from the composite, the intensity of the curing light and the irradiation time. The authors investigated the depth of cure of several shades of five brands of resin-based composites when irradiated via light in the 400- to 515-nanometer wavelength bandwidth at the International Organization for Standardization, or ISO, recommended intensity of 300 milliwatts per square centimeter. The resin-based composites were irradiated for the times recommended by the products' manufacturers.

METHODS

The authors used a curing light adjusted to emit 300 mW/cm2 in the 400-nm to 515-nm wavelength bandwidth to polymerize five samples of each composite brand type and shade. They measured depth of cure using a scraping method described in the ISO standard for resin-based composites. Depth of cure was defined as 50 percent of the length of the composite specimen after uncured material was removed by manual scraping. The authors determined a mean from the five samples of each composite brand and shade.

RESULTS

Thirteen (62 percent) of 21 composite materials met the ISO standard depth-of-cure requirement of 1.5 millimeters. Six of the eight remaining materials met the depth-of-cure requirement when the authors doubled the irradiation time recommended by the product manufacturers.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Curing lights with an intensity of 300 mW/cm2 appear to effectively cure most resin-based composite materials when appropriate curing times are used, which, in some cases, are longer than those recommended by the manufacturers. Dentists should verify the depth of cure of a composite material as a baseline measure, and then check depth of cure periodically to confirm light and material performance. The ISO depth-of-cure measurement method can be used for this purpose.

Effect of exposure intensity and post-cure temperature storage on hardness of contemporary photo-activated composites

OBJECTIVES

The effect of variation in post-exposure storage temperature (18 vs. 37 degrees C) and light intensity (200 vs. 500mW/cm(2)) on micro-hardness of seven light-activated resin composite materials, cured with a Prismetics Mk II (Dentsply) light activation unit, were studied.

METHODS

Hardness values at the upper and lower surfaces of 2mm thick disc shaped specimens of seven light-cured resin composite materials (Herculite XRV and Prodigy/Kerr, Z100 and Silux Plus/3M, TPH/Dentsply, Pertac-Hybrid/Espe, and Charisma/Kulzer), which had been stored dry, were determined 24h after irradiation with a Prismetics Mk II (Dentsply) light activation unit.

RESULTS

Hardness values varied with product, surface, storage temperature, and curing light intensity. In no case did the hardness at the lower surface equal that of the upper surface, and the combination of 500mW/cm(2) intensity and 37 degrees C storage produced the best hardness results at the lower surface.

CONCLUSIONS

Material composition had a significant influence on surface hardness. Only one of the seven products (TPH) produced a mean hardness values at the lower surface >80% of the maximum mean upper surface hardness obtained for the corresponding product at 500mW/cm(2) intensity/37 degrees C storage temperature when subjected to all four test regimes. Despite optimum post-cure storage conditions, 200mW/cm(2) intensity curing for 40s will not produce acceptable hardness at the lower surface of 2mm increments of the majority of products tested.

The application of magnetic resonance microimaging to the visible light curing of dental resins. Part 2. Dynamic imaging by the FLASH-MOVIE pulse sequence

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the application of a rapid NMR imaging pulse sequence, FLASH-MOVIE, to the visible light curing of dental restorative materials.

METHODS

The light guide was applied at one end of a cylindrical specimen of visible light curing unfilled resin and the light directed along the cylinder. During polymerisation an NMR imaging pulse sequence, FLASH-MOVIE, was run at 15s intervals with a 50 ms repetition time. The image of a 1mm thick vertical slice was recorded with a (125 microm)2 pixel size.

RESULTS

Images with good contrast were obtained from all resin monomers. The image intensity from the polymer was indistinguishable from the background intensity. Thus, the progress of light activated polymerisation in the material could be followed in real time through a series of up to 16 images. Initially the image intensity increased in the material closest to the light guide, then decreased over time to zero. Concomitant with this fall, a "cure-front" moved through the specimen.

SIGNIFICANCE

The FLASH-MOVIE NMR pulse sequence applied to microimaging of dental diacrylate resins can be used to obtain a dynamic record of visible light curing. A more refined experimental protocol will be required to apply this unique data to models proposed for this polymerisation mechanism.

Depth of cure of radiation-activated composite restoratives--influence of shade and opacity

Inadequate depth of cure may reduce the longevity of visible light-activated composite restorations. Radiation-activated composites, originally marketed for the restoration of anterior teeth, have been developed and refined for restoring occlusal and proximal cavities in posterior teeth. Clinical factors such as the accessibility of the light source, the direction of the light, intervening tooth tissue and cavity depth may limit depth of cure. Unfortunately, a hard top surface is no indication of adequate polymerization at the base of the cavity. The current investigation used a penetrometer to evaluate the depth of cure of a range of recently introduced 'universal' composite materials and assess the influence of shade and opacity on depth of cure. Depth of cure of the enamel opacity is always greater than that of the same shade of dentine for each manufacturer's product range.

Comparison of the color stability of ten new-generation composites: an in vitro study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the color stability of modern light-cured composites when subjected to various physico-chemical and staining conditions.

METHODS

Ten brands were evaluated including hybrids, microfine hybrids and microfilled composites. Some universal shade samples underwent only staining tests, while others were subjected to one of the following experimental conditions: thermocycling, postcuring, polishing or a 1 wk immersion in saline, prior to staining. The coloring solutions used for the staining tests were: coffee, E 110 food dye, vinegar and erythrosin. A colorimetric evaluation according to the CIE L*a*b* system was performed after experimental periods of 1 and 3 wk.

RESULTS

Erythrosin caused the greatest color change for the composites tested. A reduced susceptibility to staining was observed where surfaces had been polished. Low water sorption, a high filler-resin ratio, reduced particle size and hardness, and an optimal filler-matrix coupling system were related to improved composite resistance to discoloration.

SIGNIFICANCE

Resistance of modern composites to discolorations still depends on their structure and manipulation.

Relaxation of polymerization contraction shear stress by hygroscopic expansion

We studied relaxation by hygroscopic expansion of the interfacial polymerization shear stress of bonded resin composites. In the experimental set-up, resin composite-cured-to-glass strips bent due to the polymerization shrinkage. The strips were stored wet or dry. The curvatures of the bent strips were recorded, by the scanning of the glass surfaces with a contact profilometer, periodically over a period of two months. From the measured deflections, we calculated the maximum tangential bending stress in the resins near the adhesive interface, which provided an estimation for the maximum shear stress values occurring at both ends of the strips. In the particular experimental set-up, the shear stresses in Bis-GMA/TEGDMA and urethane dimethacrylate-based resins were either fully relieved or converted into an "expansion stress" by hygroscopic expansion. The hydrophobic tricyclodecane dimethacrylate-based resins showed very little stress relaxation.

The strength of layering technique in visible light-cured composites

Despite the extensive use of the layering technique in light-cured restorations there is limited information for the interfacial strength when curing is accomplished in air and an inhibited zone is formed on the first layer. This study analyzed the nature of the inhibited zone to determine the interfacial topography, evaluated the shear interlayer bond strength in the presence of the inhibited layer, and assessed the effect of various interfacial treatments on bonding. Two microfilled, one hybrid, and three small-particle composite resins were included in the study. According to the results, the inhibited zone is primarily composed of catalyst-free monomer. The presence of this zone reduces bond strength, creating interfacial discontinuities. Removal of the inhibited layer by an organic solvent of low boiling point results in the highest strength and better interfacial topography from the tested treatments.