Daher R, Yantarasri FP, Krejci I, Leprince JG, Ardu S, Lee JH* (Corresponding author). Biomechanical properties of 3D-printed resin composites compared with subtractive CAD/CAM materials and direct light-cured composites: Color stability. Dent Mater. Published online November 20, 2025.
Abstract
Objectives
This study aimed to evaluate the color stability of four three-dimensionally-printed (3D) resin composites, and compare them with nine other commonly used subtractive computer-aided designing/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) materials and resin composites for direct restoration.
Methods
Totally, 130 specimens (n = 10) were prepared from four different 3D-printed resin composites (Brilliant Print Experimental, Crowntec, Temp PRINT, VarseoSmile Crown Plus), six subtractive CAD/CAM materials (Initial Lisi Block, IPS e.max CAD, Katana Avencia, Telio CAD, Tetric CAD, Vita Enamic) and three direct light-curing resin composites (Clearfil Majesty ES-2 Classic, Tetric EvoCeram, and G-ænial Universal Injectable), and immersed in five solutions (water, tea, red wine, coffee and curry) for 28 days. Initial and final color values (CIE L* a* b*) were measured using a spectrophotometer over white and black backgrounds. Color changes were calculated (ΔE00) and statistically compared using two-way repeated measures analysis of variance and Fisher’s post-hoc test (α = 0.05).
Results
Statistical analysis of ∆E00 values revealed that two 3D-printed resin composites exhibited comparable discoloration to two subtractive CAD/CAM resin composites and one of the lithium disilicate over a black background. They revealed less discoloration compared with all direct resin composites (p < 0.05).
Significance
The investigated commercially-available 3D-printed resin composites are reliable to use in visible restorations, where common subtractive CAD/CAM and direct resin composites are indicated.