Developmental Defects of Enamel: A Bibliometric Analysis of the Top 100 Most-Cited Papers.

BACKGROUND: Developmental defects of enamel (DDE) are a result of disturbances during formation and maturation of the enamel. Evaluating the most-cited DDE papers can provide important tools that point to the gaps and strengths of this important topic in dentistry. SUMMARY: This bibliometric study analyzed the 100 most-cited papers on DDE. Using a combined keyword search strategy, the 100 most-cited papers were selected in the Web of Science Core Collection. Papers that addressed any type of DDE were included. The extracted data were title, number of citations, study theme, authorship, journal, type of DDE, type of dentition (primary or permanent), type of diagnosis, study design, year, and country of publication. The bibliometric networks were generated through VOSviewer software. The 100 papers had a range from 78 to 459 citations. The main themes of studies were etiopathogenesis (53%), prevalence and incidence (22%), and diagnosis (8%). The authors with the highest number of citations were Goodman AH and Rose JC (459 citations). Most articles were published in dental journals (47%). The most studied types of DDE were fluorosis and amelogenesis imperfecta in the permanent dentition (47%). Observational (24%) and non-systematic reviews (24%) were the most common study designs and ranged from 1977 to 2019. The country with the highest number of publications was the USA (41%). KEY MESSAGES: Most of the top 100 DDE papers were about fluorosis and amelogenesis imperfecta, with top papers from three continents with English as the native language. This topic is of great importance in dentistry, and the need for further studies is highlighted, especially regarding the diagnosis and treatment of some DDEs.

Association of Papacarie Duo® and low-level laser in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT).

Dental caries is a multifactorial, non-communicable disease. Effective treatment options for minimally invasive removal of carious tissue include Papacarie Duo® gel and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT). aPDT involves a combination of a light source and photosensitizer. Given that Papacarie Duo® contains a percentage of blue dye, this study aims to explore the antimicrobial potential of Papacarie Duo® when associated with a light source against Streptococcus mutans strains. The chosen light source was a low-power diode laser (λ = 660 nm, E = 3 J, P = 100 mW, t = 30 s). To assess antimicrobial capacity, planktonic suspensions of Streptococcus mutans were plated on Brain Heart Infusion Agar (BHI) to observe the formation of inhibition halos. The studied groups included methylene blue (0.005%), Papacarie Duo®, distilled water (negative control), 2% chlorhexidine (positive control), Papacarie Duo® + laser, and methylene blue (0.005%) + laser. Following distribution onto plates, each group was incubated at 37 °C for 48 h under microaerophilic conditions. Inhibition halos were subsequently measured using a digital caliper. The results showed that chlorhexidine had the greatest antimicrobial effect followed by the group of irradiated methylene blue and irradiated Papacarie Duo®. All experimental groups demonstrated antimicrobial potential, excluding the negative control group. The study concludes that Papacarie Duo® exhibits antimicrobial properties when associated with a low-power diode laser.

Adhesive restorations in primary dentition: A retrospective analysis of survival rate and associated factors.

BACKGROUND: Several clinical and individual factors may play a role in the survival rate of dental restorations, such as characteristics related to the child's age and oral hygiene, and factors associated with the tooth, such as the type of material and number of surfaces to be restored. AIM: To analyse the survival rate of adhesive restorations on primary teeth and factors associated with restoration survival. DESIGN: The study included dental records of children aged 3-12 years having received adhesive restorations on primary teeth at a Brazilian dental school between 2009 and 2019. A Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to plot survival rates using the log-rank test. A multivariate Cox regression model was run to identify individual and dental factors associated with restoration failure. RESULTS: The sample comprised 269 restored teeth in 111 children. Survival curves were similar for all materials (p = .20) and types of isolation (p = .05). The annual failure rate was 3.60% for glass ionomer cement, 1.23% for resin-modified glass ionomer cement and 0.40% for composite resin. The following variables were associated with more failures: Class II restoration compared with Class I (HR = 1.96; 95%CI: 1.28-2.99, p < .001), proportion of decayed teeth (HR = 11.89; 95%CI: 2.80-50.57, p < .001) and child's age (HR = 1.17; 95%CI: 1.06-1.29, p < .001). CONCLUSION: The different materials and types of isolation had similar survival rates. Children with more decayed teeth have an increased risk of restoration failure.

Frequency of missing data in clinical records in pediatric dentistry: a descriptive study.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the frequency of missing data on routine dental care appointments and restorative procedures from the clinical records of children treated at a pediatric dental clinic. A descriptive retrospective study was conducted involving the clinical records of children three to 12 years of age treated only with restorations. The inclusion criteria were clinical records from the past 10 years of children with at least one restored tooth. Data collection was performed by a trained examiner who extracted information from the clinical records on appointments for routine dental care and restorative procedures. The frequency of missing data on clinical records was submitted to descriptive analysis. Among the 249 clinical records analyzed, boys accounted for little more than half (54.2%) and mean patient age was 6.9 ± 1.8 years. Ninety-four of the 249 clinical records were of appointments for routine dental care. Missing data were found for the gingival bleeding index (18.1%), visible plaque index (22.3%) and dietary logs (74.5%). Forty-seven children were submitted to a total of 618 restorative procedures. Information was missing on the type of restorative material (5%), brand of the material used (65.2%), the type of isolation (50.8%) and whether pulp capping was performed (75.9%). The percentage of missing data from clinical records was substantial, demonstrating that important information is not recorded during routine dental care or restorative procedures.

Photobiomodulation therapy for hypersensitivity associated with molar-incisor hypomineralization: a case report.

Molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is a qualitative defect of the dental enamel on permanent first molars and may be associated with permanent incisors. There is currently no defined therapeutic protocol for managing the hypersensitivity associated with this condition. The present case report describes the treatment of a patient with MIH and the impact on the patient's quality of life as assessed using the Child Perceptions Questionnaire for children aged 11 to 14 years (CPQ11-14). The maxillary central incisors, maxillary and mandibular first molars, and mandibular right canine of an 11-year-old girl were compromised by MIH. The long version of the CPQ11-14 was self-administered before treatment. Initially, the patient reported hypersensitivity of her maxillary right central incisor, maxillary and mandibular left first molars, and mandibular right canine when consuming cold food and beverages. This was confirmed by applying a jet of air to the teeth and asking the patient to report the level of sensitivity using the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale. The patient reported that hypersensitivity was present every day or almost every day. Desensitizing treatment included 4 applications of photobiomodulation therapy (infrared diode laser) and 4 applications of fluoride varnish. After desensitization, the maxillary central incisors received direct composite resin restorations, while the maxillary left first molar, which had an amalgam restoration and recurrent caries, received a resin-modified glass ionomer cement restoration. At the conclusion of the treatment, the patient completed the CPQ11-14 again and reported less difficulty with consuming hot and cold foods and beverages, indicating that treatment had reduced hypersensitivity and its negative impact on her quality of life.

Impact of untreated dental caries on the quality of life of Brazilian children: population-based study.

BACKGROUND: The assessment of oral health should consider clinical and biopsychosocial aspects. AIM: To evaluate the impact of untreated dental caries on the quality of life of children. DESIGN: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 647 Brazilian children. The Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ8-10 ) and the 'oral health' global indicator were administered to the children and used as the outcomes. Parents answered a general questionnaire, and oral clinical examinations were performed. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, chi-squared test, Mann-Whitney test, and Poisson's regression analysis (α = 5%). The psychometric properties of the CPQ8-10 were tested for younger age group (6/7 years). RESULTS: Untreated caries was a predictor of impact on quality of life for the following items: 'pain in teeth/mouth' (PR = 1.69; 95% CI: 1.41-2.04), 'difficulty biting/chewing hard foods' (PR = 1.28; 95% CI: 1.05-1.56), 'difficulty eating what you wanted to eat' (PR = 1.61; 95% CI: 1.29-2.02), 'trouble sleeping' (PR = 1.64; 95% CI: 1.27-2.13), 'missed school' (PR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.24-2.12), 'trouble doing homework' (PR = 1.61; 95% CI: 1.12-2.31), and 'difficulty paying attention in class' (PR = 1.41; 95% CI: 1.01-1.96). CONCLUSION: Children with untreated dental caries feel greater negative impacts on quality of life than children without untreated caries.

Eighteen-month clinical performance of composite resin restorations with two different adhesive systems for molars affected by molar incisor hypomineralization.

INTRODUCTION: The restorative management of molars with molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) represents a challenge in the clinical practice with high failure rate. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical survival of direct composite resin restorations in first permanent molars (FPMs) that are affected by MIH, comparing two adhesive systems. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We selected 41 FPMs with MIH from children aged 6-8 years. FPM fully erupted and with restorative treatment needed were the inclusion criteria. We excluded FPMs with destroyed crowns. The FPMs were randomly assigned to two groups: self-etching adhesive (SEA) and total-etch adhesive (TEA). Clinical evaluation was performed by a blinded examiner during 18 months according to the modified US Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria. The actuarial method was used to evaluate survival of the restorations, and Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare differences between the groups (α = 5 %). RESULTS: The cumulative survival rates were 100 % at 1 month, 89 % at 6 months, 73 % at 12 months, and 68 % at 18 months in SEA, and 95 % at 1 month, 72 % at 6 months, 59 % at 12 months, and 54 % at 18 months in TEA; there was no significant difference between groups. CONCLUSIONS: There was no difference in clinical survival of restorations in FPMs affected by MIH using TEA or SEA adhesives in the end of 18 months. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: It was suggested that SEAs as well as TEAs can be applied to restore molars affected by MIH, when it is performed a conservative cavity preparation. Once, cavosurface margins (cavity design) in hypomineralized enamel have less bonding capability.

Factors Associated with Hypersensitivity, Management, and Treatment Options for Teeth with Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation.

Tooth hypersensitivity is a common symptom in molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) patients and can affect children's quality of life. During daily routine, children with MIH often report sensitivity to various thermal and mechanical stimuli, and difficulty in achieving effective analgesia is a common issue becoming a challenge for dentists. Research has focused on the possible pathophysiological mechanisms behind this phenomenon, which, in turn, have not been determined. Even with the apparently intact enamel of MIH-teeth, the porosity of the hypomineralised enamel acts as an open door for the invasion of oral microorganisms, which reach the dentinal tubules, and stimulate subclinical inflammatory reactions in the pulp. Tissue inflammation may, in turn, lead to morphological and cytochemical changes within sensory neurons, resulting in sensitization of these nerve fibers. This phenomenon is complex, and the treatment modalities focus on inflammation management followed by tubule obliteration by using different materials and technologies. In conclusion, this chapter reviews the concept and etiology of hypersensitivity in teeth with MIH and summarizes the clinical management according to the best evidence available.

Morphological changes and viability of Streptococcus mutans biofilm treated with erythrosine: A confocal laser scanning microscopy analysis.

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (a-PDT) is a modality that aims to induce microorganisms through visible light, a photosensitizer, and molecular oxygen. This therapy has shown promising results in controlling cariogenic biofilm in vitro and in vivo counterparts. This study investigated bacterial viability and morphological characterization of Streptococcus mutans mature biofilms after combination of erythrosine and a high potency dental curing light. Biofilms were formed on saliva-coated hydroxyapatite disks in batch culture. The samples were performed in triplicates. Fresh medium was replaced daily for five days and treated using 40 µM of E activated by HL 288 J/cm2 and total dose of 226 J at 1200 mW/cm2. Phosphate buffer saline and 0.12% of chlorhexidine were used as negative and positive control, respectively. After treatment, biofilms were assessed for microbial viability and morphological characterization by means of bio-volume and thickness. COMSTAT software was used for image analysis. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey test with significance level 5%. The application of a-PDT and CHX treatments decreased S. mutans bacterial viability. The image analysis showed more red cells on biofilms when compared to other groups, demonstrating photobacterial killing. Erythrosine irradiated with a high potency curing light can potentially act as an antimicrobial tool in the treatment of cariogenic biofilms. The morphology and viability of microorganisms were impacted after treatment. Treatment with photodynamic therapy may be able to reduce the bio-volume and viability of bacteria present in biofilms. CLINICAL RELEVANCE AND RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: The use of the a-PDT technique has been applied in dentistry with satisfactory results. Some applications of this technique are in stomatology and endodontics. In the present study, we sought to understand the use of photodynamic therapy in the control of biofilm and the results found are compatible with the objective of microbiological control proposed by this technique, thus raising the alert for future studies in vivo using the combination of a-PDT with erythrosine, since they are easily accessible materials for the dental surgeon and can be applied in clinical practice.

Impact of Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation on Quality of Life.

Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) is a multifaceted concept that surpasses an exclusively clinical perception and includes functional, social, emotional, and environmental issues. The measure of OHRQoL represents a holistic approach for research and clinical practice. Negative impacts of oral conditions on OHRQoL in childhood can reflect on health development, especially in a life stage marked by social and cognitive maturation. Therefore, such problems can impact negatively on the daily lives of the individuals and their families. Individuals with molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) experience more frequent posteruptive breakdown, an elevated risk of tooth decay, filling failures, the need for recurrent dental treatment, and a higher prevalence of dental hypersensitivity. Children with severe MIH may struggle with everyday activities, such as brushing their teeth, speaking, smiling, chewing, and consuming hot or cold foods. MIH-affected incisors may exhibit opacities that can impact the aesthetics of their smiles. This condition may discourage children from smiling and can indirectly affect their parents as well. The management modalities are focused on solving functional, aesthetic, and hypersensitivity problems and to evaluate OHRQoL values before and after therapies. Therefore, this chapter aims to discuss how MIH affects the OHRQoL of children and the questionnaires that can be used to evaluate that impact.

Roughness assessment of colored compomers: Results after an erosive-abrasive in vitro cycling test.

Background: The present in vitro study aimed to evaluate and compare the surface roughness of a colored compomer and a composite resin, after 15 days of erosive-abrasive cycling. Material and Methods: The sample included ninety circular specimens, randomly divided (n = 10): G1 Berry, G2 Gold, G3 Pink, G4 Lemon, G5 Blue, G6 Silver, G7 Orange and G8 Green, referring to the different colors of compomer (Twinky Star®, VOCO, Germany) and G9 for composite resin (Z250®, 3M ESPE). The specimens were submerged in artificial saliva and stored at 37°C for 24 hours. After polishing and finishing, the specimens were submitted to initial roughness (R1). Then, the specimens were submerged in an acidic cola-based drink for 1 minute and then exposed to electric toothbrushing for 2 minutes for 15 days. After this period, the final roughness (R2) and the ΔRa were performed. Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey's test for intergroup comparison and paired T-test for intragroup comparison (p<0.05). Results: Among compomers, the green color presented the higher/lower initial and final roughness values (0.94 ± 0.44, 1.35 ± 0.55) with lemon color presenting the most prominent real roughness increase (ΔRa = 0,74) whereas composite resin showed the lower values (0,17 ± 0.06, 0,31 ± 0.15; ΔRa = 0,14). Conclusions: All compomers, after the erosive-abrasive challenge, presented an increase in roughness values when compared to composite resin with a highlight to green tones. Key words:Compomers, composite resins, surface properties.

Application of lasers in dentistry: a bibliometric study of the top 100 most-cited papers.

This bibliometric study analyzed the 100 most-cited papers about the use of lasers and their modalities in dentistry. A search strategy was created using specific keywords related to the topic. A comprehensive search was then conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoS-CC) database up to July 2021. Papers that addressed the application of any type of laser and its modalities in dentistry were included. Each paper was cross-matched with the number of citations on Scopus and Google Scholar. The following data were extracted from papers: title, number of citations, authorship, country, year of publication, journal, study design, subject, laser type, and oral health outcomes. The VOSviewer software was used to generate bibliometric networks. The total number of citations ranged from 120 to 4,124 and 23 papers received more than 200 citations. Papers were published from 1964 to 2015. Most papers were from Europe (42%) and Anglo-Saxon America (27%). The USA was the country with more top 100 papers (25%). Papers were published mainly in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine (15%) and Lasers in Medical Science (7%). VOSviewer maps demonstrated the existence of national and international research collaborations among institutions and authors. Most studies had a laboratory design (57%) and were about restorative dentistry (32%) and periodontics (21%). This bibliometric study of the top 100 most-cited papers on lasers in dentistry allowed a quantitative and qualitative analysis of this very promising research field, revealing a net of collaboration and the importance of this topic in dentistry.

Modified Arnold expander: an alternative for mandibular arch expansion.

INTRODUCTION: Due to the anatomical constraints of the mandible, mandibular dental arch usually serves as a guideline to determine the required changes in the maxillary transverse dimension. The Schwarz appliance and the Lip Bumper are the traditional orthodontic appliances for mandibular arch expansion in patients with borderline amounts of crowding, and/or transverse discrepancy. However, they often require patient cooperation, which may be a concern for orthodontists in daily practice. OBJECTIVES: This article illustrates a simple fixed orthodontic device as an alternative to achieve mandibular arch expansion in patients with moderate tooth-size/arch-length discrepancy. The four reported cases refer to 8 to 10-year-old patients in the mixed dentition, with an Angle Class I or Class II malocclusion, transverse deficiency in both arches, moderate crowding and/or posterior crossbite, combined with compromised smile aesthetics. The patients were treated with rapid maxillary expansion (RME) using Hass expander appliance and the modified Arnold expander (MAE). CONCLUSION: This low-cost compliance-free orthodontic appliance provided dentoalveolar decompensation by means of uprighting the posterior teeth, with minimal or no adjustments during treatment. The final results were achieved in only three to four months, and fulfilled all treatment objectives, such as an increase in the arch perimeter and width, and a better teeth alignment.

Chemo-mechanical and photodynamic approach in A deep dental cavity: A case report.

AIM: To test a chemical-mechanical method and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (a-PDT) in combination to manage a deep dental carious lesion in a permanent molar pediatric patient. BACKGROUND: Due to specific characteristics of early-erupted teeth, as first permanent lower molars, techniques that provide less invasive tissue removal aiming keep healthy tooth parts, such as pulp tissue, are desired. Furthermore, especially to children, provide comfort, less noise and vibration are important issues that should be considered on the management of deep caries. CASE DESCRIPTION: The following case report presents an association of Papacarie Duo® (PD) and a-PDT used in a 9-year-old patient with a deep dental caries in the mandibular right first molar. After PD application, the carious tissue was carefully removed with the cavity stained for 1 min with rose bengal solution, irradiated with a high intensity LED constituting the a-PDT technique, and definitively restored with composite resin. At 6 months of follow-up, no signs of caries were verified, showing success to applied techniques. A microbiological evaluation attested the antimicrobial effects of the alternative procedures. CONCLUSION: Although it reached optimal clinical and bacterial reduction outcomes, the approach demonstrated an excessive length of time taken for the management of carious lesion. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The use of new technologies should be encouraged, especially when treating deep caries aiming for a less invasive approach.

The Combination of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy and Photobiomodulation Therapy for the Treatment of Palatal Ulcers: A Case Report.

Introduction: One of the unexpected side effects of the Haas type palatal expander is ulcers progressing to necrotic lesions in the palatal area due to poor hygiene. The use of antibiotic therapy is mandatory. However, long periods of healing/pain and the need for a systemic host response with the aid of metabolization, especially in children, are issues that should be taken into account in the management of this type of injury. Since phototherapy modalities (antimicrobial photodynamic therapy [aPDT] and photobiomodulation therapy [PBMT]) are able to enhance and accelerate the healing process and reduce the bacterial load, this case report aimed to describe the use of the above-mentioned therapies to treat palatal ulcers occurring during orthodontic expansion. Case Report: The patient, a 10-year-old boy, with a chief complaint of bleeding and continuous pain in the region of his expander was verified on a follow-up visit. After a dental examination, the expander was removed and two necrotic lesions which were in contact with the acrylic part of the tooth-tissue expander were found in the palatal region. The proposal was to use one aPDT session with methylene blue followed by 4 sessions of PBMT with a red laser diode. On the 5th day, reorganized tissue was verified, with the absence of bleeding, swelling, and pain. On the 20th day of follow-up, the area showed no signs of inflammation, healthy tissue without any pathological clinical symptoms, and complete wound healing. Conclusion: The concomitant use of PBMT and aPDT therapies may be considered feasible as an adjunct treatment to manage palatal ulcers resulting from the incorrect use of tooth-tissue types of expanders.

Does pre-irradiation time influence the efficacy of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy?

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has emerged as a promising antimicrobial treatment to control microorganisms including those involved in oral diseases, especially dental caries. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of aPDT - pre-irradiation time (PIT), at different periods, on antimicrobial rate of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). A standard suspension of S. mutans UA159 was prepared and submitted at sensitization of 0.005 % methylene blue (MB) for 0, 1, 3 and 5 min (G1 - G4 groups, respectively) and irradiated with a red laser (660 nm; 321 J/cm2; 9 J; 90 s) afterward. A control group using PBS instead of MB was performed as well (G5). The number of colony-forming units (CFU)/mL was recorded, transformed into log10 and analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test at a cutoff value at 0.05. Overall, the aPDT groups tested achieved a bacterial reduction > 1-log10 when compared to G5 (p < 0.05) with no statistical difference among the different PIT tested. The need of PIT before aPDT application deserves attention, since its time reduction implies on shorter clinical approaches without compromising the photodynamic antibacterial efficacy in the in vitro parameters employed.

Spontaneous Eruption of Severely Impacted teeth: The Report of Two Cases.

The unerupted and impacted tooth is a common problem and the reason for many orthodontic and pediatric dental referrals, yet the approach to their management is still an area of controversy. This article presents two cases of severely impacted teeth that spontaneously erupted in the maxillary and mandibular arches. The first patient, a 9-year-old girl, presented a severe impaction of mandibular right and left second premolars. The second patient, a 7-year-old girl, presented with a severely impacted maxillary central incisor. In both cases, the teeth spontaneously erupted into excellent positions without surgical procedures and orthodontic traction. This raises important questions concerning the possible treatment options for such teeth as well as the timing of any interceptive treatment. In cases of unerupted or impacted teeth, a multidisciplinary approach is indicated involving orthodontics, paedodontics and oral surgery to establish the optimal treatment plan. Key words:Tooth eruption, tooth, impacted, orthodontics, interceptive, case reports.

Early Childhood Caries in a Northeastern Brazilian Capital: Observations of Social Distinct Daycare Centers

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate factors associated with the experience of dental caries in children in early childhood in two socially distinct centers in the city of São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in two socially distinct daycare centers (private and public). The children were assessed regarding their caries experience, and their parents/guardians were prepared regarding socioeconomic information, parents/guardians' habits, and children's habits. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Association tests and multivariate analyses were performed to analyze independent variables and outcomes (type of daycare center and caries experience) using a p-value of 5%. Results: The sample consisted of 89 children aged up to 5 years of both sexes. The type of daycare center was associated with some socioeconomic data, such as family income (p<0.01) and parents' education (p=0.05). Data on oral hygiene and children's habits, such as breastfeeding, also remained associated with the type of daycare center. There was an association between income and DMFT (PR=8.48 - 95%CI 2.26;31.78). Conclusion: The socioeconomic profile of parents/guardians and breastfeeding were associated with the prevalence of caries in deciduous teeth in children aged 10 to 48 months.

Whitening toothpastes effect on nanoparticle resin composite roughness after a brushing challenge: An in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: Nowadays, the use of whitening toothpastes is a common habit, especially among young adults, due to aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, little is known regarding the effects of brushing with those newly dentifrices on wear properties of resin composites. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty specimens of nanoparticle composite resin were fabricated and stored in distilled water for 24 h at 370C. After this, the roughness analysis was performed and submitted to the simulated brushing technique using three types of toothpastes: conventional (GI), and two with whitening effect (GII and GIII) for a period of 15 days, with 2 brushing sessions per day for 2 minutes each. The final surface roughness was analyzed after completing all the brushing cycles and stereoscopic images were taken for each group. The data was analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey-test post hoc for intergroup comparison and the T-test for dependent samples as well (α = 0.05). RESULTS: However showing an increase of roughness for all groups after the brushing cycles (p = 0.01), no statistically significant differences among the groups after simulated brushing was verified (p = 0.17). Yet, just some cracks of the stereoscopic images were shown, demonstrating no distinct visual effects among the studied groups. CONCLUSIONS: After simulated brushing with the whitening toothpastes, similar degree of roughness was verified on the composite resin tested. Key words:Composite resin, toothpastes, whitening.