Effect of plaque disclosing agents on the color stability of different restorative materials: in vitro study

PurposeThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two plaque disclosing agents on the color stability of four different restorative materials.Materials and MethodsTwenty disc-shaped specimens (8 mm diameter, 2 mm thickness) were prepared for each material: Z250 (3M ESPE), Charisma Diamond (Heraeus Kulzer), Estelite Universal Flow Medium (Tokuyama Dental Corporation Inc.), and Beautifil II (Shofu Inc.). Baseline color measurements were conducted using the VITA Easyshade Compact after numbering the specimens and immersing them in distilled water at 37◦C for 24 hours. Two plaque disclosing agents were applied to the specimens: Mira-2-Ton (Hager & Werken) to 10 specimens and ProPind plaque indicator gel (Promida Co.), containing erythrosin dye, to the remaining 10 specimens. Ten seconds after the application, each specimen was rinsed under running water for 30 seconds and air-dried. Color changes in the specimens were calculated using the CIEDE2000 formula. Statistical analysis was performed using One-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney U tests (p<0.05).ResultsThe color changes were perceptible (ΔE00 > 0.8) in all experimental groups. Clinically unacceptable color changes (ΔE00 >1.8) were observed in all groups following Mira-2-Ton application, with Charisma Diamond exhibiting the highest color change (7.18±2.65) and Z250 the lowest (2.98 ± 1.13). In contrast, all groups stained with ProPind gel showed clinically acceptable color changes (ΔE00 <1.8), with no statistically significant differences among materials (p>0.05).ConclusionPlaque disclosing agents can significantly impact the color stability of restorative materials. Understanding the chemical composition of plaque disclosing agents is essential for clinicians to ensure the long term aesthetic stability of restorative materials. Further in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to assess the underlying mechanisms of discoloration caused by disclosing agents.