Evaluation with a Vickers Durometer of the Superficial Microhardness of Restorative Materials Subjected to Pediatric Syrups

Prolonged use of pediatric syrups can alter the microhardness of the tooth enamel surface, as well as the restorative ionomers used in deciduous dentition, causing these materials to have a shorter lifespan in the oral cavity. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the surface microhardness of restorative ionomers subjected to pediatric syrups used in chronic treatments in children with a Vickers durometer. It was carried out with quantitative methodology and quasi-experimental design. The sample was made up of 60 disc-shaped specimens, prepared according to the manufacturer’s instructions, 30 for conventional ionomer and 30 for photocured ionomer, which were randomly included in each subgroup. The syrups in which the samples were immersed every 2 minutes per day were Paracetamol and Ferrous Sulfate. Surface microhardness data were recorded with the Vickers durometer at time 0 and at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. The results showed that the values for all samples decreased from time 0 to day 28, this difference being statistically significant (p < 0.05). In conclusion, prolonged use of pediatric syrups without taking appropriate measures can have harmful effects on the properties of restorative ionomers, which can lead to treatment failures and caries recurrences.