The Effects of Polymerization in Different Light Power Modes on the Radiopacity of Composite Resins

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of polymerization in different light power modes on the radiopacity of six different composite resins (Filtek Z250, Xtrafil, Tetric N Ceram, SureFil SDR Flow, Nova Compo HF, Grandio Flow).Methods: Plexiglass molds (8 mm diameter, 2 mm thickness) were used for the preparation of the samples. Totally ten samples were formed for each composite resin (standard mode; n=5 and extra power mode; n=5). A 2-mm-thickness buccolingual section was obtained from the extracted premolar tooth for enamel and dentin samples. To evaluate the relationship between the density of the samples and tooth structure, an Al step wedge was used as a reference. The mean gray values of each composite resin, enamel, dentin, and Al step wedge were calculated with an image analysis program. Data were analyzed with an independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey HSD test.Results: All tested composites met ISO standards. Even if the radiopacity values of tested composites changed according to the light power mode, this change was found to be statistically significant only in SureFil SDR Flow (p=0.037). The difference between the radiopacity values of tested composites in both standard power and extra power mode was statistically significant (p<0.01). The highest radiopacity values were produced by the bulk-fill composites in both standard and extra power modes.Conclusion: In this study, all tested composites were found to have sufficient radiopacity for restorations according to the criteria set by the ISO.