Effect of Tea on Color Stability of Enamel Lesions Treated with Resin Infiltrant

This study aimed to assess the effect of tea on color stability of enamel lesions treated with resin infiltrant (RI).

This in vitro, experimental study evaluated 30 extracted human third molars with no caries, cracks, or enamel defects. Enamel-dentin samples measuring 5 x 5 x 3 mm were prepared from the buccal surfaces of the teeth by a microtome. The samples were divided into three groups of 10 namely sound enamel, demineralized enamel, and demineralized enamel plus RI. White spot lesions (WSLs) were artificially created by immersing the samples in hydroxyethyl cellulose demineralizing gel with a pH of 4.5 for 4 days. Next, Icon RI was applied on the samples in group 3. The baseline color of the samples was measured using a spectrophotometer. They were immersed in tea solution 3 times a day, each time for 15 min, for a period of 2 weeks and then underwent colorimetry again. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA.

The maximum color change (∆E) was noted in demineralized enamel plus RI group (38.59±6.13) with significant differences with sound enamel (20.00±2.94) and demineralized enamel (25.27±7.47) groups (P<0.05). The difference between the latter two groups was not significant (P>0.05).

Within the limitations of this in vitro study, the results showed that tea solution caused clinically unacceptable color change in all groups. However, the color stability of WSLs treated with RI was significantly lower than other groups following immersion in tea solution.