Impact of additional polishing on the roughness and surface morphology of dental composite resins

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study evaluated the surface roughness and morphology of microfilled (Durafill VS) and nanohybrid (Evolu-X) composite resins submitted to different finishing/polishing systems, with or without further additional polishing. Methods70 specimens were fabricated and distributed to 14 sample groups (n=5 per group). The Mylar strip (MS) was the control group. Sof-Lex Pop-on (SP) and Praxis TDV (PTDV) were finishing/polishing systems used in the experimental groups. Additional polishing was performed with either a felt disc moistened with diamond paste (FP), or just a silicon carbide brush (SCB). Roughness (Ra) was measured and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images were obtained. Data were subjected to two-way ANOVA and Tukey (p<0.05). ResultsThe SP (0.186 and 0.250μm) finishing/polishing systems produced a smoother surface compared with a PTDV (0.208 and 0.296μm). The Evolu-x (EVO) resin showed lower roughness. After the additional polishing with FP, there was no difference between the resins tested and values of roughness. SEM suggests smoother Durafill VS (DUR) surface when polishing is carried out with PTDV+FP. SP provided an Evolu-x surface with fewer grooves and scratches. Evolu-x surfaces treated with PTDV and SP+SCB had a more irregular topography. ConclusionFurthermore, the FP offered a smoother and uniform texture to the surface of both resins independent of the previous treatment. The SCB offered a smoother texture to the surface of the DUR resin than EVO.