The Influence of Extrinsic Coloration Factors on Composites

Introduction: As we have observed the multiple color changes of composite restorative fillings, we decided to study the extrinsic factors that lead to their coloration. We have studied this visually and by computer, after a previous immersion of the composites in different colored and coloring substances, including cigarette smoke. Purpose: To determine the substances that produce the color changes of composites (extrinsic coloration), in vitro study, also, the composites that remains aesthetic for a long period of time. Method and material: In celluloid tooth shapes, we made 32 teeth, using four different composites shade A2, two nanocomposites and two microhybrid composites. We placed in each celluloid shape two layers of material, composites of the same group, resulting 16 teeth of nanocomposite and 16 teeth of microhybrid composite. After immersing them for 24 hours in purified water at 37°C, the mesial part of every tooth was polished. The teeth were immersed in 15 different substances and purified water was used as standard. After another 24 hours, we made a professional brushing and we evaluated their color again. Pictures were taken after every stage and they had been analyzed by a software. Results: Some composites changed their color from A2 to A3 and A4, others, even to shades of B, C and D. The most intense coloration was produced by coffee and red wine. Conclusions: The coloring drinks may produce significant alteration of the aesthetic of composites, which can be improved by professional brushing. Coloration depends not only on the coloring substance, but also on its pH level, the thickness of the composite, the texture of the surface and the immersion time

Statistical Study on the Motivation of Patients in the Pediatric Dentistry

Our statistical study included 344 participants selected from the patients of the Pedodontics–Orthodontics Discipline of the Tîrgu-Mureş University of Medicine and Pharmacy. The patients’ age was between 6 and 18 years, with an average of 13.70 and a standard deviation of 4.62. The study participants were informed and agreed to complete two questionnaires of our conception regarding their health status, oral hygiene, and motivation for pedodontics or orthodontic treatment. The results of the two questionnaires were interpreted according to the gender and age of the patients. Data processing was performed with NCSS/PASS Dawson Edition statistical software, using the CHI2 test, considering a p of less than 0.05 as significant for comparative results. Results showed that girls were more motivated than boys in addressing pedodontic services due to dental, periodontal, and articular problems. Children, aged between 11 and 14 years, were less intrinsically motivated to solve oral health problems due to their low frequency. The intrinsic motivation for a more beautiful dentition was very strong, regardless of age and sex. Girls were more intrinsically motivated for orthodontic treatment than boys. There was a linear increase together in the age of those who wanted to improve their smile and facial appearance. Children between 11 and 14 years had the best self-perception of the appearance of their teeth, mouth, smile, and facial harmony. The strongest extrinsic motivation for orthodontic treatment came from parents or another doctor. The most important reason for orthodontics was dental malpositions, the last one was the improvement of masticatory efficiency. The extrinsic motivation from parents for orthodontics decreases linearly with age, along with the increase in motivation from the person with whom the participants relate emotionally and from the group of friends