Influence of Storage Media on Color Stability of Different Resin Composites as Determined by ΔE and ΔE00

Objective: To evaluate the color stability of 3 different resin composites when exposed to storage in water, air or artificial saliva. Materials and Methods: Initial color of 81 specimens was assessed by a calibrated reflectance spectrophotometer over a black as well as a white background. Specifically, 9 disc shaped specimens made out of 3 resin composite materials were kept in distilled water, air and artificial saliva (Glandosane) at 37°C. After a storage period of 4 weeks, spectrophotometric measurements were repeated and the color changes calculated by means of ΔE and ΔE00. Results: When analysed over a white background, median ΔE values varied from 0.6 (Filtek Supreme Dentin/water) to 7.1 (Filtek Supreme Enamel/Glandosane). When analysed over a black background median ΔE values varied from 0.4 (Filtek Supreme Dentin/water) to 5.0 (Filtek Supreme Enamel/Glandosane). When analysed over a white background, median ΔE00 values varied from 0.4 (Filtek Supreme Dentin/water) to 4.6 (Filtek Supreme Enamel/Glandosane). When analysed over a black background median ΔE00 values varied from 0.4 (Filtek Supreme Dentin/water) to 4.6 (Filtek Supreme Enamel/Glandosane). Statistical analysis performed by means of ANOVA and Fisher’s LSD post hoc tests showed differences between groups. The correlation between ΔE and ΔE00 was 99.09% and 99.65% over black and white background, respectively. Conclusion: Within the limits of the present study, storage media significantly influenced color stability of resin composites.