Influence of Low pH on the Microhardness and Roughness Surface of Dental Composite—A Preliminary Study

Abstract

Dental composites are gaining great popularity in restorative dentistry because of their aesthetic appeal and capacity to replicate the natural color of teeth. Nevertheless, their lifespan and durability rely on various factors, such as the polishing technique and the environmental conditions they are exposed to. The study aimed to assess the influence of the method of final polishing of dental composite on the surface roughness and microhardness of materials also considering the environment of different pHs. Disc-shaped samples (5 mm diameter and 2 mm thickness) have been prepared for microhardness and roughness tests from two dental composites: A2 Clearfil Majesty ES 2 Classic and A2D Clearfil Majesty Premium. One-third of samples were polished with polishing discs, OptiDisc, another one-third of samples were polished with Eve Diacomp Twist rubbers and polishing brush with diamond particles, and rest of the samples were stored without any polishing (the control group). Tested materials were incubated in distilled water or acidic buffer (pH = 2) for 3 weeks at a temperature of 37 °C. No statistically significant differences were found for roughness for the two materials tested after incubation in liquids. A decrease in Vicker microhardness was found for Clearfil Majesty ES 2 Classic after soaking in a low pH liquid, and no such relationship was found for Clearfil Majesty Premium. The improved resistance of these materials to the negative oral environment may result in the longer survival of composite restorations in patients with poor diet or diseases, causing a decrease in oral pH.