“Evaluation of the effect of different bleaching agents on composite in vitro study

Aim: To evaluate the effect of bleaching products on the surface of composite restorative material Objective: To understand the effect of different bleaching products acting on the surface of tooth colored composite restoration before and after staining in various drinks Background: Tooth coloured restorations are composite restorations which are applied on the prepared cavity and hardened with a special light, which ultimately bonds the material to the tooth to restore or improve the persons smile. Various beverages such as tea, coffee, soft drinks, wine etc. can affect the colour and texture of the composite restoration in various degrees depending on their composition. Bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, the two most popular bleaching products, can change the physical properties of dental restorations. Purpose: As dental whitening has become more accessible, many patients select this treatment for esthetic reasons. In most cases, they want whiter teeth. Consumption of various beverages such as soft drinks, coffee, tea etc. is also increasing among patients of all ages. Because of the popularity and convenience of bleaching and the addition of new bleaching products every year, it is important to study the effects of these products on teeth and dental restorative materials. Materials and Methods: 27 specimens (5mm x 2 mm) of composite were prepared, The specimen were divided into 3 groups of 12, 12, and 3 each. These groups were again divided into 4 subgroups of 3 specimen each (n=3) and stained for 9 hours in tea, coffee, soft drinks and wine respectively. The specimen were then subjected to their specific bleaching agents, Pola Office and Colgate optic White Blaching Kit. Colorimetric measurements were performed before staining, after staining and after bleaching. Analysis of variance and nonparametric analysis were used to analyse data. Results: After staining, it was observed that tea stained the composites the most. After bleaching it was observed that the Pola Office Bleaching kit was more effective in bleaching than the Colgate Optic white bleaching kit. Conclusion: It can be concluded that in office bleaching removes surface stains from composite restorations more than when compared to the home use bleaching kit. It is advised that the in office bleaching agents be used for patients with stains on composite restorations, providing better whitening effect.