The Effect of Carbonated Drinks with Different Low pH Levels on Surface Roughness of Nano-filled Composite Resin

Background and aim: Nano-filled composite resins are popular due to their small filler size, which results in a smooth restoration surface, a vital physical property. The consumption of carbonated drinks is increasing. Continuous exposure in a low pH environment causes composite resin’s surface roughness. A rough surface accumulates dental plaque, which causes various dental complications. Material and methods: This research used 27 Filtek Z350XT nano-filled composite samples prepared using disc-shaped 8mm diameter and 2mm thickness. Samples were divided into three groups: a control group of pH 7.0 distilled water, carbonated drink A of pH 2.4, and carbonated drink B of pH 2.9, immersed in 5mL vials for two hours per day for 15 days. The surface roughness of samples was measured before and after immersion on day 15 using a surface roughness tester. Changes in surface roughness were analyzed using One Way ANOVA and Post Hoc Test. Results: Surface roughness of samples immersed in the control group, carbonated drink A of pH 2.4 and carbonated drink B of pH 2.9 respectively to be 0.1333±0.07331μm: 0.8011±0.07897μm; 0.5311±0.08695μm. One-way ANOVA showed a significant difference in the surface roughness of nano-filled composite resin samples. Conclusions: Based on the results, it can be concluded that after 15 days of immersion in carbonated drinks with low pH levels, the surface roughness of nano-filled composite resin significantly increased.