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Updated: Oct 24, 2025

Roughness Impact of Piezoelectric Dental Scaler on Two Distinct Flowable Composite Filling Materials
Published on: January 10, 2025
Composite surface roughness and color change following airflow usage
Azam Valian1, Zahra Jaber Ansari1, Mohammad Moien Rezaie1
1Department of Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Daneshjoo Blvd, Evin, Shahid Chamran Highway, Tehran, 1983963113, Iran.
Airflow polishing with calcium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate powders showed no significant difference in reducing composite surface roughness and staining compared to conventional polishing. However, airflow devices are not recommended as a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Surface Engineering
- Esthetic Dentistry
Background:
- Esthetic dental restorations require smooth surfaces for optimal appearance and to prevent microbial adhesion.
- Surface characteristics of composite restorations significantly impact clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of airflow polishing on the surface roughness and color change of composite dental materials.
- To compare the efficacy of airflow polishing with conventional polishing techniques for stain removal and surface finishing.
Main Methods:
- An in vitro study involving 30 composite discs divided into three groups: airflow with calcium carbonate, airflow with sodium bicarbonate, and conventional polishing (FlexiDisc).
- Surface roughness was measured using profilometry, and color change was assessed via spectrophotometry (L*, a*, b* parameters) before and after polishing.
- Statistical analysis included paired t-tests and Tukey's tests for within-group and between-group comparisons.
Main Results:
- Airflow polishing with sodium bicarbonate resulted in significantly higher surface roughness compared to calcium carbonate airflow and conventional polishing.
- A reduction in surface roughness was inversely correlated with changes in a* and b* color parameters, indicating smoother surfaces led to decreased redness and yellowness.
- No significant difference was found between airflow polishing and conventional polishing in overall stain reduction.
Conclusions:
- Airflow polishing devices, despite comparable stain removal to conventional methods, are not recommended as a cost-effective alternative due to maintenance and cost considerations.
- Conventional polishing remains a preferred method for achieving desired surface characteristics and esthetics in composite restorations.
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