The effect of different finishing polishing protocols on stain absorption and color stability of resin composite restorations

Purpose: To evaluate the degree of stain absorption of resin composite following different finishing and polishing protocols and to evaluate the efficacy of prophylaxis paste with or without addition of carbamide peroxide to remove composite surface stain. Methods: 50 resin composite blocks were prepared using nano-hybrid composite (Filtek Z250XT) and giomer (Beautifil II LS). Specimens were either polished with a disk or coated with 5^th/7^thgeneration bonding or glycerin gel. The color parameters (lightness, chroma and hue) of the specimens were measured prior to staining, and after 1 and 2 weeks of staining using a color chromometer. The composite surface stain removal capability of prophylaxis pastes with or without the addition of carbamide peroxide was evaluated before and after polishing. Results: The repeated measures ANOVA showed that composite polished with a polishing disk or coated with glycerin gel have better color stability compared to composite without any polishing or coated with 5th or 7th generation bonding materials. The prophylaxis paste was able to remove composite surface stain; however, the addition of carbamide peroxide did not show any additional benefit. The results suggested that polishing with polishing disks or coating with glycerin gel is useful for the color stability of resin composite.