Influence of two pediatric multivitamin forms on surface characteristics and color stability of single-shade composite, nanofilled composite, and glass ionomer cement: an in vitro study.

backgroundGummy and chewable pediatric multivitamin formulations commonly contain citric acid and ascorbic acid, yielding pH values that may fall below the critical erosive threshold of 5.5. These organic acids can degrade restorative materials through proton-mediated surface dissolution and chelation of matrix cations. Despite widespread use, evidence on their long-term effect on contemporary restorative materials remains limited. This study aimed to assess the effect of gummy and chewable forms of pediatric multivitamin supplements on the surface hardness, roughness, and color stability of glass ionomer cement (Medifil), universal single-shade resin composite (Omnichroma), and a nanofilled composite resin (Filtek Z350 XT).

methodsSpecimens (n = 135) of Omnichroma composite, Filtek Z350 XT composite, and Medifil glass ionomer cement were prepared and assigned to three subgroups (n = 15): (1) artificial saliva (control), (2) HerbaL Gummies dissolved in artificial saliva, and (3) Centrum chewable tablets dissolved in artificial saliva. After 6-month daily in vitro immersion cycles (69 s/day at 37 °C), surface hardness (VHN), roughness (Sa via AFM), and color change (ΔE) were evaluated. Data were analyzed using a two-way ANOVA with a 3 × 3 factorial design, followed by Tukey's HSD post hoc test.

resultsTwo-way ANOVA revealed significant main effects of material and immersion medium, and significant material×medium interactions for all outcomes (all p ≤ 0.001). Both solutions significantly reduced hardness and increased roughness vs. control. Glass ionomer cement was the most susceptible material for surface hardness and roughness (lowest VHN and highest Sa across all conditions; p < 0.001 vs. both composites), while Filtek Z350 XT was the least affected. HerbaL Gummies produced greater hardness reduction than Centrum in glass ionomer and Filtek Z350 XT, while Omnichroma responded comparably to both. Omnichroma exhibited the greatest color change across all conditions (ΔE = 3.13), though all ΔE values remained clinically acceptable (ΔE < 3.3).

conclusionDaily in vitro exposure to acidic pediatric multivitamin supplements adversely affected the surface hardness, roughness, and color stability of all tested restorative materials under simulated oral conditions, with material- and formulation-specific degradation patterns. HerbaL Gummies demonstrated greater erosive potential than Centrum chewable tablets for most material outcome combinations. Clinicians should account for supplement acidity when selecting restorative materials and should advise parents to administer supplements with meals and rinse with water immediately afterward.