Color Stability of Prefabricated Pediatric Zirconia Crowns: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Impact of Multiple Autoclave Cycles

When sterilizing dental restorative materials, autoclaving is essential because it guarantees the removal of potentially hazardous germs and upholds aseptic conditions. This is especially important for pediatric dentistry, where prefabricated zirconia crowns are often used because of their long-lasting and attractive qualities. Autoclaving affects the chemical and physical properties of dental materials in addition to helping to control infections. The aim of the present study is to evaluate effect of repeated autoclave cycles on the color stability of pre-fabricated pediatric zirconia crowns. A total of 30 mandibular molar crowns were used in the in-vitro study. The crowns were divided into two groups according to the brands. Group 1 (Nu-Smile), Group 2 (Kids E Crown). The color stability was measured using a spectrophotometer. Initial color readings are taken for all the 30 samples. After each cycle of sterilization color stability was measured using a spectrophotometer. The color changes in the crowns obtained from the spectrophotometer was analyzed by CEILAB method. It showed the L, A, B values of NU Smile and KIDS E zirconia material crowns during initial, after 1^st and 2^nd cycle of Autoclave. NU Smile value showed increase in value which indicates lightness of material and KIDS E value showed decrease in value which indicated darkness of material. There was no significant difference in the color stability of the crowns after each cycle of autoclave sterilization in both the brands. Additionally, further clinical studies with longer follow-up periods are needed.