The impact of dental varnishes on the immediate surface microhardness and roughness of restorative dental materials: An in vitro study

Background/Aim. Dental varnishes are effective in preventing caries in children. This study aims to compare the effect of varnishes containing fluoride and casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate on the microhardness and roughness of three specific restorative materials in pediatric dental practice. Methods. The study included 60 discs and 60 bars, made from three commonly used dental restorative materials. After preparation and incubation, and subsequent basic measurement, the samples were divided into two subgroups, each of which was treated with fluoride varnish and casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate according to a precisely established protocol. After treatment, all samples were retested for microhardness and roughness. Results. The application of fluoride varnish and casein phosphopeptideamorphous calcium phosphate varnish increased the microhardness of the hybrid composite and resin-modified GIC but reduced the microhardness of high-viscosity GIC. The roughness was more pronounced with the composite material, as well as with the resinmodified glass ionomer cement. Conclusion. Prophylactic varnishes containing fluoride and calcium have the potential to alter the microhardness and roughness of dental restorations. It is important to carefully select the appropriate varnish, as it can influence the microhardness and roughness properties of the material.