Elastomeric chains and ligatures are often selected in different colors to highlight the appearance of their braces in orthodontic practice. The color stability of these materials is of significant interest in view of its impact on esthetics and patient satisfaction. Objectives: The objective of this study was to characterize environmental effects on the gray level and chromaticity changes in colored elastomers. Methods: Elastomeric materials from five different manufacturers (A-Company, American Orthodontics, 3M/Unitek, Ormco and TP Orthodontics) were evaluated. The colors of different products included gray, white, clear, green, blue, charcoal and red. The materials evaluated were either injection molded or extruded products. 8 mm square samples were obtained from specially supplied or available sample stocks of materials for this study. Five separate groups of randomly selected 16 samples were included. The groups included a control group (no treatment) and four groups immersed for both 24 and 72 hrs in different staining media (Coffee, Tea, Classic coke and curry). A Minolta Chromameter 221 was used for color measurements. A computer was used to measure and record the color data. Results: Significant differences in DL*, Da*, Db* and DE were found between products as a function of color selection, manufacturer, staining medium and interactive effects (p<0.05). Typically, changes were less in darker colors than in others. The maximum effect on total color change was on the b* chromatcity coordinate. Curry caused the highest color degradation. Coffee and tea were similar in their effects. Coke had the least effect. Conclusions: Although none of the colored elastomers tested were truly “color stable”, there were significant differences in color changes as a function of environment as well as selected color and manufacturer of product tested.

Back to the Dental Materials: VIII - Others-Non-metallic Program
Back to the IADR/AADR/CADR 82nd General Session (March 10-13, 2004)

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