Degree of conversion, translucency and intrinsic color stability of composites during surface modeling with lubricants

ABSTRACT

The tackiness presented by resins causes problems in performing the incremental technique, which can be improved by using lubricants in handling. Aim: To evaluate the influence of two adhesive systems as brush lubricants on the degree of conversion, translucency and intrinsic color stability of composite resins. Methods: Samples (n=10) were fabricated according to the composites (Filtek Z350 XT, IPS Empress Direct, and Esthet X HD), shades (bleach shade and A2), and lubricants used (Adper Single Bond 2, Adper Scotchbond Multi-Purpose bonding agent, and no lubricant). Single composite increments were inserted into a Teflon mold. The composite surface was then modeled using a brush dipped in an adhesive system. The control group was fabricated with no additional modeling. The surface degree of conversion (DC) was measured using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy; translucency and intrinsic color stability were accessed using a spectrophotometer. Data were analyzed using three-way ANOVA and the Tukey test (p<0.05). Results: Scotchbond Multi-Purpose decreased the DC of all composites and shades in comparison with the control group (p<0.05), although it did not decrease color stability (p<0.05). The bleach shade of IPS Empress Direct and Esthet X HD showed higher translucency than the A2 shade when lubricated with the adhesive systems (p<0.05). Conclusion: Therefore, the two tested adhesive systems used as brush lubricants on composites promoted changes to the surface degree of conversion and aesthetic properties