Staining and whitening products induce color change in resin composites.

Purpose: To evaluate color and gloss changes of three different resin composites after staining and whitening.
Methods: 57 disc-shaped composite samples were made for each of three resin composite materials [Activa BioActive Restorative (Activa), Filtek Supreme (Filtek), and TPH Spectra (TPH)], producing 19 samples per composite (n=19). Each group of resin samples was divided among four solutions: red wine, coffee, tea, and water (control), producing six samples per staining group (n=6) and one control (n=1). Samples were stained for 40 days for 3 hours/day at room temperature. When not undergoing staining/whitening, samples were stored in DI water at 37°C. Measurements were obtained for color and gloss before staining, after staining, and after whitening. Illuminant source specular component excluded (SCE) and included (SCI), with both CIE L*a*b* and CIE 2000 L*C*h* systems, were obtained with colorimetric measurements. The standard ΔE (total color change) = 3.3 was used as a clinically acceptable value. Stained groups were divided into two groups (n= 9 each) for each whitening product: Opalescence Boost and Opalescence PF. Both were applied according to manufacturer's instructions.
Results: Staining of all samples consistently showed decreased lightness. Filtek showed the most colorimetric changes, especially with wine, while TPH and Activa composites showed few changes; most changes were with tea. Whitening altogether showed generalized increased lightness. All Activa specimens returned to clinically acceptable levels, but the other two materials tested varied. Gloss was most affected for TPH, followed by Filtek; and gloss improved with Activa groups. Overall, Filtek's color varied most, with Activa and TPH being less. All Activa groups returned to clinically acceptable values. However, multiple TPH and Filtek groups had ΔE> 3.3. Furthermore, TPH had the most gloss changes. Activa composites appeared the most stable under the conditions of this study.
Clinical Significance: Clinicians should be aware that resin composites can undergo staining from a variety of sources. Some resin composites can return to their original esthetic appearance after using bleaching agents. In addition, staining beverages can affect the gloss of the resin composite.
Competing Interests: Dr. Parks and Mr. Morrow declared no conflict of interest. Dr. Pameijer and Dr. Garcia-Godoy are consultants to the Pulpdent Corporation.
(Copyright©American Journal of Dentistry.)