Color stability of experimental composites containing different photoinitiators

Objectives: To evaluate the color stability (SE) of experimental composites containing different photoinitiators when submitted to accelerated artificial ageing (AAA). Material and methods: Thirty test specimens were made in a Teflon matrix (8 mm x 2 mm), using an experimental composite (n = 10) with the same monomer composition and particle size, but varying photoinitiator used: Group CQ (0.4% Camphorquinone), Group PPD (0.4% 1 Phenyl -1,2 Propanodione) and Group CQ+ PPD (0.2% CQ+ 0.2% PPD). The samples were light activated (QTH - Ultralux - Dabi Atlante - 40s) and polished before performing the initial color readouts (EasyShade - Vita). Next, they were submitted to AAA for 300 h, after which final color readouts were made. Results: The results (1 -way ANOVA - Tukey - p < 0.05) demonstrated that all the groups presented color alteration above the clinically acceptable level (SE > 3.3), however, with no statistically significant difference among them (p > 0.05). Analysis of Ab demonstrated increase in the values of this coordinate, indicating yellowing in all groups. Conclusions: It was concluded that the type of photoinitiator, which presented a tendency towards yellowing, did not interfere in the color stability of composites submitted to AAA. Clinical significance: Alternative photoinitiators have been extensively studied since Camphorquinone presents a yellowish color, which compromises the aesthetic performance of composites, especially the lighter -shade ones. CD 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.