Water sorption and color stability of dental composites light-cured with a broadband LED device and different radiant exposures

Abstract

Objective: This study assessed the properties of four resin-based composites (Charisma Classic, Charisma Diamond, Filtek Z350XT, and Filtek Bulk Fill) concerning water sorption and color stability under different radiant exposures of a broadband LED device (Valo Cordless, Ultradent) and immersion solutions. Material and Methods: Disc-shaped specimens of the composites were prepared and subjected to two different radiant exposures: 20 J/cm2 at 1000 mW/cm2 for 20 seconds and 16.8 J/cm2 at 1400 mW/cm2 for 12 seconds. Water sorption (SO) was measured using a precision weighing scale, while color stability (deltaE00) was evaluated after immersion in distilled water, coke soft drink, or beer for 28 days. Factorial ANOVA and Tukey HSD test (alpha = 5%) were employed for data analysis. Results: Significant differences were observed in water sorption (p = 0.000) among the composites and radiant exposures (p = 0.022). Likewise, color stability (deltaE00) exhibited significant differences among composites (p = 0.000), radiant exposures (p = 0.000), and immersion solutions (p = 0.000). Interaction between factors was also significant (p = 0.000). Conclusion: Radiant exposure significantly impacts the properties of resin-based composites, particularly affecting water sorption and color stability. Optimal performance in clinical settings can be achieved by tailoring polymerization conditions. The study found that exposure to 20 J/cm2 at 1000 mW/cm2 for 20 seconds resulted in the lower water sorption values, while the lowest color alteration (deltaE00) was observed with 16.8 J/cm2 at 1400 mW/cm2 for 12 seconds.

KEYWORDS

Color; Composite resins; Curing lights; Dental restoration; Esthetics.