Evaluating the Color Stability of 3D Printed Temporary and Permanent Composite Resins After Exposure to Common Beverages

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the color stability of 3D printed permanent and temporary composite-based restorative materials by assessing their stainability after immersion in tea, coffee, and water. Methods: The composite resins used included Temp Ultra (TU) and Custom Composite Resin (CR) (for temporary restorations) and Crowntec (for permanent restorations). Specimens were 3D printed, post-polymerized, and polished. They were then immersed in tea, coffee, or water at 37°C for 7 days. Color changes were measured using the CIE Lab* system and analyzed using IBM SPSS 26, with ?E00 values compared to clinical thresholds. Results: After 7 days, the greatest color change (?E00) was observed in all coffee-immersed groups, with the TU + coffee group showing the highest ?E00 value (2.38 ± 0.21), exceeding the clinically acceptable threshold of 2.25. The CR + water group exhibited the least color change (0.16 ± 0.05). Color changes in tea-immersed groups were statistically significant, with CR showing reduced color change (1.97 ± 0.15). Only the coffee-exposed groups exceeded the acceptable ?E00 value. Conclusion: The study found that the type of composite material significantly affects color stability, with Temp Ultra showing the most color change in coffee. The results suggest that while these materials demonstrate acceptable color stability. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.