Evaluating the Effect of Active Charcoal-Containing Toothpaste on Color Change, Microhardness, and Surface Roughness of Tooth Enamel and Resin Composite Restorative Materials

Abstract

Background and Objectives. Charcoal-containing toothpastes have become popular among many patients; however, there is inadequate scientific evidence on oral health. This study aimed to evaluate the color change, surface microhardness, and roughness of bovine enamel and composite resin submitted to simulated toothbrushing with a whitening toothpaste containing activated charcoal. Methods. Thirty-six bovine incisors and resin composite samples were prepared, stained with black tea, and then randomly divided into two groups. The samples were brushed with a charcoal-containing toothpaste (Colgate® MAX WHITE) and daily toothpaste (Colgate® Max Fresh) for 10,000 cycles. Before and after brushing cycles, color variables (ΔL, Δa, Δb), total color change (ΔE), plus Vickers microhardness were evaluated. Two samples of each group were prepared for surface roughness assessment via atomic force microscope. Data were analyzed by Shapiro–Wilk, Independent sample t-test and Mann–Whitney U tests. Results. According to the obtained results, ΔE and ΔL were significantly higher whereas Δa and Δb were noticeably lower in charcoal-containing toothpaste group in comparison with daily toothpaste in both composite and enamel samples. The microhardness of samples brushed with Colgate® MAX WHITE was significantly higher than that of Colgate® Max Fresh in enamel ( P = 0.04 ), whereas no significant difference was found in composite resin samples ( P = 0.23 ). Colgate® MAX WHITE enhanced the roughness of both enamel and composite surfaces. Conclusion. The charcoal-containing toothpaste could improve the color of both enamel and resin composite with no negative effect on microhardness. Nevertheless, its adverse roughening effect should be considered occasionally on composite restorations.

The Effect of Charcoal-Based Dentifrice and Conventional Whitening Toothpaste on the Color Stability and Surface Roughness of Composite Resin: A Systematic Review of In Vitro Studies

“…Eleven full-text articles were screened, and one study that did not address the focused question was excluded. In total, ten in vitro studies [ 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 ] were included and processed for data extraction ( Figure 1 ).…”

“…In five studies [ 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 ], the shade of CR used was A2. Pouryahya et al [ 11 ], Aydin et al [ 4 ], Binhasan et al [ 12 ], and Mehrgan et al [ 5 ] did not report the shade of composite used in their studies.…”

“…The number of CR samples assessed for CS and/or SR ranged between 18 and 200. In six studies [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 ], CS was assessed using spectrophotometry, and in one study, a colorimeter was used [ 10 ]. Profilometers were used to assess SR in four studies [ 8 , 9 , 11 , 12 ].…”

“…Profilometers were used to assess SR in four studies [ 8 , 9 , 11 , 12 ]. In three studies [ 4 , 5 , 7 ], the tinction of CR was performed using a coffee solution; in another study [ 10 ], black tea was used for tinction. None of the remaining studies [ 3 , 8 , 9 , 12 ] reported the mode of composite tinction.…”

“…Within the domain of dental restorations, CR assumes a central role by seamlessly conforming to the shape and bonding requirements of fractured or decayed teeth, thereby achieving a harmonious integration of function and esthetics. However, the success of composite resin (CR) restorations extends beyond immediate aesthetic considerations, encompassing nuanced factors such as color stability (CS) and the enduring maintenance of a smooth surface texture over time [ 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 ]. CS, a critical facet in the longevity of dental restorations, pertains to a material’s resistance to color alterations induced by diverse factors, including environmental exposure, dietary habits, and oral hygiene practices [ 13 ].…”