RESUMO
PURPOSE: This study evaluated the association of surface degradation and formation of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) biofilm in resin-based composites (RBCs) after storage in different acidic liquids. METHODS: To evaluate microhardness and surface micromorphology, hybrid and nanohybrid RBC discs were stored in artificial gastric acid, cola drink, orange juice, artificial saliva, and distilled water for three intervals of 15 min per day for 7, 15, and 30 days. After 30 days of storage, surface roughness was analyzed, and the RBC discs were placed in a biofilm reactor inoculated with S. mutans to evaluate surface biofilm formation. RESULTS: As compared with nanohybrid RBCs, roughness and surface microhardness values were significantly lower (P < 0.05) for hybrid RBCs stored in artificial gastric acid, followed by specimens stored in cola drink and orange juice. Artificial gastric acid caused greater surface degradation, which increased the biomass of S. mutans on the surface of both RBC types. CONCLUSION: Surface degradation of hybrid and nanohybrid RBCs correlated with the pH of the liquid, while S. mutans biofilm formation was associated with increased surface roughness in hybrid RBCs.