Effect of mouthwashes on the discoloration of bracket-bonded tooth surfaces: an in vitro study

This in vitro study aimed to investigate the color changes of the bracket-bonded tooth surfaces after the use of 4 different mouthwashes.

A total of 100 human premolar teeth were randomly divided into 10 equal groups. Color values (L*a*b*) of the buccal surfaces of each tooth were assessed using a digital spectrophotometer. Then the brackets were bonded. The groups were put either in sterile saline (4 test+1 control) or artificial saliva (4 test+1 control) solutions, and test groups were immersed in their mouthwashes (Colgate Plax, Listerine Cool Mint, Klorhex, and Tantum Verde) for 1 min each in the morning/evening to simulate the mouth washing for 21 days after the bonding. After the debonding and finishing procedures, final color measurements were performed. Color changes (∆E) were calculated.

All of the parameters showed statistically significant differences among the groups. The least noticeable color changes were detected in the control groups. The most noticeable color change (ΔE) was observed in the Tantum Verde + artificial saliva group, followed by Tantum Verde + sterile saline and Klorhex + artificial saliva groups, all of which were significantly higher than the control groups.

The use of mouthwashes during orthodontic treatment may cause noticeable changes in tooth color. Listerine Cool Mint may be the choice of mouthwash with its less discoloring effects. Artificial saliva should be preferred in similar in vitro studies to reflect the oral environment better.

Mouthwash use during orthodontic treatment may result in different levels of enamel discoloration.