Effect of Varying Ph of Immersion Solutions and Immersion Time on Micro Hardness of Packable Composites

Abstract

Objective:

The objective of this study was to determine effect of ph and immersion time of various immersion solutions on the microhardness values of packable composites.

Materials and methods:

Three unlike mouthwashes Colgate plax (alcohol/ ethanol free), Listerine (alcohol/ ethanol), and distilled water Clinica (Chlorhexidine Gluconate) were used as immersion solutions in this in vitro study. .Total 64 circular disc shape specimens were used. Ph of each solution was used using ph meter. The initial microhardness test was carried out before immersion for baseline measurement by Vicker,s micro hardness tester. For final microhardness testing the samples were divided into two groups. Half of them were immersed for 12 hours and other half were immersed for 24 hours.

Results:

The values obtained as base line and final Vickers hardness number for each specimen was subjected to statistical analysis. All tested mouthwashes and distilled water decreased the surface microhardness. Immersion for 24 hours affected the microhardness more then immersion for 12 hours.

Conclusion:

The results illustrated that mouthwashes containing alcohol present a higher potential to decrease the micro hardness when exposure is for longer period of time. This study will help clinicians to select a durable esthetic restorative material which shows less degradation in oral environment, and in people using mouthwashes frequently.