In vitro staining of resin composites by liquids ingested by children.

PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to compare the influence of various children's drinks on the discoloration of dental resin composites. METHODS Ninety-six disks (3-mm thick, 10 mm in diameter) were prepared from 3 types of composite: (1) submicron; (2) nono; and (3) microhybrid. After polishing and obtaining baseline data, they were equally divided into 4 groups and immersed into 1 of 4 liquids at 37 degrees C: (1) distilled water; (2) Kool-Aid Jammers (grape flavor); (3) Coca-Cola; or (4) snow cone syrup (banana flavor). On days 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15, the samples were measured again for color. On day 18, they were measured for both color and gloss. RESULTS Overall, the color change during the staining procedure was minimal (deltaE(ab) < 1.67) for all 3 composites, although it appeared that Tetric EvoCeram had the least discoloration. Using 3-way analysis of variance and linear regression analysis, only Estelite sigma in Coco-Cola showed a statistically significant linear relationship between discoloration and stain time. CONCLUSIONS Three composites reacted differently in various staining solutions. During this study, the 4 solutions did not discolor any of the composites in a way that was clinically significant Tetric EvoCeram may be the most stain resistant material among the 3 tested.