Effect of Sports and Energy Drinks on Surface Roughness of Dental Restorative Materials: An In Vitro Study

This study evaluated the effect of sports and energy drinks on the surface roughness of three commonly used restorative dental materials: resin-based composites (RBCs), resin-modified glass ionomer cements (RMGICs), and conventional glass ionomer cements (GICs). Sixty-three A2-shade specimens of each material were fabricated, stored in distilled water for 24 h, and then immersed in six commercially available beverages or distilled water (control) for 6, 30, or 60 h. Surface roughness was assessed after each immersion period using contact profilometry, and the effects of material type, immersion medium, and exposure time were compared. Surface roughness increased with longer immersion times for all materials, although the magnitude of change varied significantly among material types. RBCs showed the greatest resistance to surface degradation, whereas RMGICs and particularly GICs exhibited progressively higher roughness values over time. Beverages generally produced greater surface roughness than distilled water, with sugar-containing formulations showing higher roughness values than their sugar-free counterparts. Prolonged exposure to sports and energy drinks may adversely affect the surface integrity of restorative materials. Resin-based composites demonstrated the highest resistance to roughness changes, whereas glass ionomer cements were the most susceptible. Increased surface roughness may contribute to plaque accumulation, staining, and material wear, potentially compromising the long-term clinical performance of restorations.