Impact of adhesive layer addition on the optical properties of remineralized white spot lesions.

Background: The present in vitro study evaluated the camouflage effect of two treatments for white spot lesions (WSLs): remineralization with Mi Paste Plus© (GC Europe N.V.) and remineralization combined with a Scotchbond Multi-Purpose© (3M ESPE 2015) adhesive layer. Additionally, the study assessed the color stability of the treatments when exposed to a staining agent, such as coffee. Methods: Sixty extracted anterior and posterior teeth were preserved in saline solution and divided into two groups. Artificial WSLs were created using 37% orthophosphoric acid for 1 minute. Both groups underwent daily 6-hour remineralization treatments with Mi Paste Plus© for 14 days. In the second group, a thin adhesive layer was applied after remineralization. Color analysis was performed using an MHT SpectroShade Micro spectrophotometer at baseline (T1), after remineralization (T2), after adhesive application for group 2 (TR), and after immersion in coffee for 24 hours (T3). Color differences (ΔE) between healthy tissue and WSLs were assessed, with ΔE≤3.3 considered clinically acceptable. Data were analyzed using STATA 17 (P≤0.05). Results: ΔE analysis showed a statistically significant improvement in the camouflage effect in the adhesive-treated group (TR) compared to remineralization alone (T2). After coffee exposure (T3), ΔE values increased significantly in both groups, with higher values observed in the adhesive-treated group. Intragroup analyses indicated significant differences between T2 and T3, as well as TR and T3. Conclusion: The application of an adhesive system can be considered a valid option to improve the aesthetic outcome of a remineralization treatment; however, this approach carries the risk of resin staining over time.