Color stability of microfilled, microhybrid and nanocomposite resins-An in vitro study

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two beverages-Tea and Pepsi on the color stability of three different composite resins after a period of 7 and 30 days. Methods: Color stability of a microfilled, microhybrid and nanocomposite was evaluated after storage in Tea, a carbonated drink or Distilled Water for 7 and 30 days. Color measurement was done using reflectance spectrophotometer based on the CIE L*a*b* color scale. Mean values of the different groups were compared using three-way analysis of variance and multiple comparisons of the mean values were done using Tukey-Kramer test with 0.05 as significance level. Results: All tested resin composites showed color change after a period of 7 and 30 days. The color change exhibited by all three groups was significantly different for all three beverages studied, at both time periods (p < 0.05). Amongst the resin composites studied microhybrid composite was found to be more color stable. The microfilled composite discolored most in Distilled Water and Pepsi at the 7th and 30th day. The nanocomposite discolored most in Tea at 7th and 30th day. Conclusion: All efforts should be made to minimize discoloration of composite restorations by adopting excellent polishing techniques. Patients should also be educated on the possibility of the restoration to undergo staining under the influence of beverages. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.