Evaluation of the color stability of attachments made with different resin composites

Coloring solutions-such as coffee and cola, frequently consumed daily-cause coloration of attachments made with resin composites. This may reduce the motivation for clear aligner treatment, often preferred by patients with esthetic concerns. This study aimed to compare color changes of orthodontic attachments made with 3 different composite resins.

A total of 90 premolar teeth (n = 10) extracted for orthodontic reasons were used. All teeth were embedded in plaster models to imitate the arch shape and scanned with an intraoral scanner. Horizontal rectangular attachments were placed on each tooth by printing the attachment template obtained using digital models. Three composite resins: Omnichroma, GC Aligner Connect, and Tetric PowerFlow were used to prepare the attachments. The models prepared in arc-shaped in each composite group were divided into subgroups and kept in 3 different solutions (coffee, cola, and distilled water) in the incubator at 37 ± 1°C. The models were photographed at baseline and 28 days later with the Smile-Lite MDP device. L, a, and b values were obtained with Digital Color Meter (version 5.22; Apple, Cupertino, Calif). CIEDE2000 formula (ΔE00) was used to evaluate color changes. In addition, models were scanned for color determination at baseline and 28 days later with the 3Shape intraoral scanner.

There were significant color differences between solutions (P <0.05).

Attachments can be colored easily. Patients should be warned against coloring solutions at the beginning of the treatment, and their eating and drinking habits should be regulated.