Brushing and intake of Colored Beverages tied to discoloration of Restorative dental Material: Study

A new research published in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene revealed that brushing and intake of colored substances such as cherry juice can negatively affect the color stability of restorative dental materials. However, composite materials show better resistance to discoloration caused by brushing and exposure to colored beverages when compared to other materials.

This study focused on 3 widely used restorative materials as compomers, resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC), and composite resins. To simulate real-world conditions, scientists prepared 40 samples of each material and divided them into controlled subgroups. These samples were immersed either in cherry juice or distilled water over a period of 10 days. Within each group, half of the specimens were subjected to simulated toothbrushing every 8 hours for one minute daily, while the rest remained unbrushed.

Color stability was measured at the beginning and end of the experiment using a standardized system, which allowed this research to calculate the degree of discoloration. The findings revealed strong differences across the type of material, exposure to staining liquid, and brushing activity.

The resin-modified glass ionomer cement samples exposed to cherry juice and brushing showed the highest level of discoloration, with a ΔE00 value of 13.91, which indicated a visibly significant color change. The least affected samples were the unbrushed composite resins soaked in distilled water, which expressed minimal discoloration.

Brushing appeared to contribute to increased staining under certain conditions. This research suggest that brushing may alter the surface texture of materials, making them more susceptible to pigment absorption. Among the materials tested, composite resins demonstrated the strongest resistance to discoloration overall. Even when exposed to cherry juice and brushing, composites maintained better color stability when compared to compomers and resin-modified glass ionomer cement.

While maintaining good oral hygiene remains essential, the study highlights the need to consider the type of restorative material used, especially in children who frequently consume colored beverages. Overall, the findings suggest that composite resins may offer a more reliable option in preserving the natural appearance of teeth. Further dedicated studies will help in refining the recommendations for long-term dental aesthetics.

Source:

Özkal Eminoğlu, D., Çoruh Kiliç, M., İşcan Yapar, M., & Yener, M. (2026). Assessment of the effects of toothbrushing and cherry juice on the colour stability of restorative materials in paediatric dentistry: An in vitro study. International Journal of Dental Hygiene, idh.70055. https://doi.org/10.1111/idh.70055