Investigating the color changes on resin-based CAD/CAM Blocks

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Esthetic Dentistry

Background:

• Advancements in dental ceramics enhance the esthetics and durability of restorations.
• New generation CAD/CAM materials offer improved optical properties for dental applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the color stability of composite, hybrid ceramic, and zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate (ZLS) CAD/CAM blocks.
• To assess the impact of common beverages on the discoloration of these dental materials.

Main Methods:

• Samples of composite, hybrid ceramic, and ZLS CAD/CAM blocks were prepared and their initial color measured.
• Specimens were exposed to red wine, coffee, cola, energy drink, and distilled water for up to 30 days.
• Color changes were quantified using spectrophotometry and analyzed with ANOVA.

Main Results:

• Red wine and coffee caused the most significant discoloration in all tested CAD/CAM materials.
• Composite CAD/CAM material exhibited the highest discoloration when exposed to red wine and coffee.
• Cola and energy drinks did not cause significant discoloration compared to the control group.

Conclusions:

• All tested dental CAD/CAM materials exceeded the clinically acceptable color change threshold (ΔE₀₀: 2.25) after exposure to wine and coffee.
• Hybrid ceramic and ZLS CAD/CAM blocks demonstrated similar color stability.
• Material selection should align with patients' dietary habits to ensure long-term esthetic outcomes.