Effect of At-Home Bleaching Products on the Physical Properties of Three Aged Resin Composites

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of bleaching agents on the color, microhardness, and gloss of resin composites. Methods: Thirty-two specimens from each resin composite (Tetric EvoCeram, Neo Spectra, and Filtek Ultimate) were subjected to an aging procedure by thermocycling and water storage, then randomly distributed into four subgroups (n = 8): 10% CP, 20% CP, 30% CP of different concentrations of carbamide peroxide, and a control group (no bleaching). Before and following bleaching, measurements were taken of the color, microhardness, and gloss. Results: The mean color changes (ΔE) and gloss after bleaching using Neo spectra, Filtek, and Tetric Evo Ceram showed a very statistically significant difference from the no bleaching group. After bleaching, Filtek's mean microhardness values were considerably greater than those of the other two resin composites. Significance: Across three aged resin composites showed noticeable color and gloss changes after bleaching. Compared to Tetric EvoCeram and Neo Spectra, Filtek has a greater change in microhardness values. As a result, patients should be informed that using at-home bleaching products may alter the properties of their current resin composite restorations.