Surface characteristics of tooth-colored restoratives polished utilizing different polishing systems

The surface characteristics of different tooth-colored restoratives polished with the Enhance system, white stones, and the Super-snap system were evaluated using profilometry and microhardness testing. Surface characteristics of materials cured against a Mylar Uni-strip were used as a control. The results of this study show that the surface characteristics (roughness and hardness) following polishing with different systems are material dependent. The result may be attributed to the discrepancy between filler and matrix hardness of the restorative. Filler content, particle size, and the ability of the polishing system to abrade the filler may also contribute to the observed change in surface characteristics.