Colour Stability, Opacity and Cross-Link Density of Composites Submitted to Accelerated Artificial Aging

The study evaluated the influence of accelerated artificial aging on colour stability, opacity and cross-link density of resin-based composites (RBCs). Seven specimens were obtained of five RBCs (Heliomolar, 4 Seasons, Tetric Evo Ceram, SR Adoro), which were submitted to colour stability and opacity analysis and cross-link density evaluation. All tests were performed before and after aging. After statistical analysis (one-way ANOVA; Tukey; p<0.05), it was observed that QuiXfil and SR Adoro presented colour alteration values above those that are clinically acceptable (ΔE=5.77 and 4.34 respectively) and the variation in opacity was lowest for SR Adoro. There was an increase in the cross-link density of all studied materials after aging.

KEY WORDS: Composite, Colour stability, Opacity, Cross-links, Aging.