Differences in color, translucency and fluorescence between flowable and universal resin composites

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Optical Physics

Background:

• Flowable resin composites offer handling advantages in dental restorations.
• Universal resin composites are widely used for their mechanical properties.
• Accurate shade matching is crucial for aesthetic dental outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare the optical properties (color, translucency, fluorescence) of flowable resin composites versus their universal counterparts.
• To determine if significant differences exist that impact clinical shade matching.

Main Methods:

• Four brands of A2 shade flowable and universal resin composites were tested.
• Color, translucency parameter (TP), and fluorescence (DeltaE(ab)(*)-FL) were measured using spectrophotometry.
• One-way ANOVA was used to analyze differences in optical properties.

Main Results:

• Perceptible color differences (DeltaE(ab)(*) > 2.6) were found in three of four brands.
• Flowable composites showed lower translucency in two brands, influencing color differences.
• Fluorescence was detected in all universal and two flowable composites.

Conclusions:

• Significant differences in optical properties exist between flowable and universal resin composites.
• Variations in color, translucency, and fluorescence necessitate careful consideration for clinical shade matching.
• These optical differences impact the aesthetic predictability of dental restorations.