Evaluation of physical, chemical, and color-matching properties of monochromatic resin composites: An in vitro study

Abstract

The objectives of this study are to evaluate, in vitro, the microhardness, sorption, solubility, color stability, and color-matching ability of monochromatic resin composites: Palfique Omnichroma / Tokuyama (Mono1) and Vittra APS Unique / FGM (Mono2) compared with the conventional resin composite: Filtek Z250 XT / Solventum (Conv). For this analysis, ten disc-shaped composite specimens were prepared for each group for the microhardness, sorption, solubility, and color stability tests. To evaluate color-matching ability, 36 tooth specimens were obtained from the buccal/lingual surfaces of human molars (n = 12). The teeth were restored, and color compatibility was assessed with a digital spectrophotometer (Vita Easy Shade) and visually. Microhardness and sorption were higher in the Conv group. However, sorption values are within the limits established by ISO 4049/2019 for all groups. No significant difference in solubility or visual color match was noted. However, the conv group demonstrated superior color-matching in the spectrophotometer analysis. After 7 days of coffee immersion, the Mono 1 group showed slightly less pigmentation. Monochromatic resin composites demonstrated physicochemical and organoleptic properties comparable to those of the evaluated conventional resin composites, suggesting similar compatibility and a potential option for simplifying clinical restorative protocols.