Scattering properties of a composite resin: Influence on color perception

BACKGROUND: The properties of the composite materials and the clinical expertise while layering them carry many esthetic implications in restorative dentistry. AIMS: The aim of the present study is to assess the influence of scattering properties of G-aenial A2 shade on color perception when used in esthetic restorations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two composite resins were evaluated in this study: Gradia Direct (shade A3) and G-aenial (shade A2). A colorimetric evaluation according to the CIE L*a*b* system, relative to standard illuminant A against a white background, was performed to assess the referred chameleonic properties of G-aenial when used in simulated clinical situations. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: The differences in color change between the test group G-aenial and the test Group Gradia Direct were considered clinically not perceptible (ΔE* <3.3). Differently, the differences in color change were considered clinically perceptible (ΔE* >3.3) between the control group G-aenial and the control group Gradia Direct and between the test group G-aenial and the control specimens obtained with G-aenial. The CIE Lab parameters which brought to ΔE were investigated using t-test (P < 0.05). RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Color harmonization in simulated clinical conditions depends on different factors related to dentine and to composite resins. In this study dentine variables were dropped in order to analyze the influence of thickness and of the composition of the composite resin.