Effect of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages on the wear and fracture toughness of teeth and resin composite materials: In vitro study

Background: Tooth wear is becoming more apparent in the early stages of life. Consumption of alcoholic beverages and non-alcoholic beverages have highest buffering capacity and low pH values show pronounced erosive effect on enamel and degradation rate of composite materials. Hence the purpose of this study is to compare wear and degradation of two resin composite materials and teeth in presence of different alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Materials and Methods: Total 75 specimens comprising of composite blocks (Z350 and P90) and mandibular molars were divided into experimental groups (A, B, and C) ( n = 25). The experimental liquids were water, Sprite® , Coke® , Kingfisher® Beer, and Golconda® Wine ( n = 5). The specimens were weighed using a digital weighing balance. Wear was carried in Wet Abrasive Wear Tester. SEM evaluation was done. Fracture toughness performed with universal testing machine. Results: In Groups A and B significant weight loss in all experimental beverages, maximum in alcoholic beverages ( P < 0.05). SEM showed surface irregularities, filler/matrix interfacial failure, and significant decrease in fracture toughness in Groups A and B. In Group C significant weight loss and decrease in fracture toughness maximum in non-alcoholic beverages ( P < 0.05). SEM showed significant wear and surface irregularities. Conclusions: It was concluded that significant amount of wear of dental composite materials and teeth seen in presence of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. All the experimental groups displayed statistical significant decrease in fracture toughness in presence of all beverages.