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Color and opacity variations in three different resin-based composite products after water aging
Alessandro Vichi1, Marco Ferrari, Carel Leon Davidson
1University of Siena, Italy. avichi@mclink.it
Summary
Water exposure causes color instability in some resin-based dental composites. One material showed unacceptable shade shifts, highlighting the need to consider material composition for long-term color stability.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Intrinsic color change over time can compromise dental restorations.
- Accurate shade selection is crucial for aesthetic outcomes in restorative dentistry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of water exposure on the color stability of three distinct resin-based composite materials.
- To determine if aging in water affects the opacity of these composites.
Main Methods:
- Three resin-based composite systems with six Vita shades each were tested.
- Samples underwent spectrophotometric analysis (CIE L*a*b*) before and after 30 days in a 60°C water bath.
- Color change (delta E) and opacity were calculated using established formulas.
Main Results:
- One composite material exhibited clinically unacceptable color shifts (delta E < 3.3) across all shades after aging.
- Only one material maintained acceptable shade stability for all tested shades.
- Significant differences in color stability (p < 0.001) were observed between the materials, potentially linked to matrix composition and filler particle characteristics.
- Opacity changes mirrored color shifts, with statistical correlation.
Conclusions:
- Water aging significantly impacts the color stability and opacity of certain resin-based composites.
- Material composition plays a critical role in long-term colorant performance in aqueous environments.
- Clinical implications include potential aesthetic compromise due to shade alteration over time.