Comparative Evaluation of Colour Stability of Conventional Heat-Cured Acrylic Denture Base Resin After Using Natural and Chemical Denture Cleansers: An In-Vitro Study

Background: The long-term aesthetics and functionality of acrylic dentures depend significantly on the color stability of the denture base material. Commonly used chemical cleansers and natural products may impact the color of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), the most widely used denture base resin. Aim: To compare and evaluate the effect of natural (Triphala, Neem, Aloe vera) and chemical (Soap, Chlorhexidine mouthwash, Denture cleansing tablet) cleansers on the color stability of conventional heat-cured PMMA resin. Materials and Methods: A total of 105 standardized PMMA specimens were fabricated and divided into seven groups (n=15 per group). Group I (control) was immersed in distilled water; Group IIA [A1-A3] were immersed in natural cleansers (Triphala, Neem, Aloe vera), and Group IIIB [B1-B3] in chemical cleansers (Soap, Mouthwash, Clinsodent tablet). Specimens were immersed daily for 1 hour and stored in distilled water between immersions. Color measurements were taken using a spectrophotometer (FRU, CIE Lab*) at baseline, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. ΔE values and NBS units were calculated and statistically analyzed using ANOVA. Results: All groups showed an increase in ΔE values over time. The least color change at 6 months was observed with Aloe vera (ΔE=2.88), while the highest was with distilled water (ΔE=4.99) and Clinsodent (ΔE=4.67). Natural cleansers, particularly Aloe vera and Triphala, showed better color stability compared to chemical agents. Statistically significant differences were observed between groups (p<0.001). Conclusion: Natural denture cleansers like Aloe vera and Triphala are viable alternatives to chemical cleansers for maintaining denture hygiene without compromising color stability. Dentists should consider recommending them to improve long-term patient satisfaction. Keywords: Acrylic resin, PMMA, color stability, denture cleansers, Triphala, Aloe vera, Clinsodent.