Color alterations in teeth with orthodontic treatment exposed to pigmenting substances, with and without fluoride varnish protection with tricalcium phosphate: An in vitro study

Introduction: At the end of orthodontic treatment, it is common to observe dental color alterations, making the teeth appear more yellowish or stained. This often leads to tooth whitening procedures, which are invasive treatments unsuitable for patients with dental sensitivity. This study proposes a preventive protocol using Clinpro™ White Varnish with tricalcium phosphate fluoride varnish after bracket cementation, which is easy to apply and manage, to reduce demineralization and dental pigmentation. Materials and Methods: This was an in vitro, experimental, and longitudinal study. Eighty healthy premolars extracted for orthodontic reasons were bracketed and divided into two groups of 40: one without enamel protection and another with protective varnish. Each group was subdivided into four subgroups (10 premolars each), which were submerged in Coca-Cola®, coffee, dark beer, or a control group for 10 days. The color was evaluated before cementation and after bracket debonding through digital photographs using Adobe Photoshop 2022. Results: All teeth exposed to pigment substances showed significant color changes, most notably in the unprotected group. The protected group presented higher L values, indicating whiter teeth. Kruskal-Wallis tests revealed significant differences in Coca-Cola® (P=0.0007), coffee (P=0.0007), and beer (P 0.0043). Conclusion: Clinpro™ White Varnish fluoride varnish significantly reduces postorthodontic dental pigmentation, promotes remineralization, and improves dental color naturally, without invasive procedures.