Effects of Surface Treatment Methods and Staining Solutions on the Color Stability and Surface Roughness of CAD/CAM Hybrid Ceramic Materials

CAD/CAM hybrid ceramic materials have been increasingly used in restorative dentistry due to their ability to combine ceramic strength with the handling advantages of composite resins. The present study focused on how surface treatment protocols and commonly used immersion solutions affect the color stability and surface roughness of these materials. For this purpose, 256 specimens were fabricated from Vita Enamic, Lava Ultimate, Cerasmart, and Shofu Block HC. Following surface treatment using either mechanical polishing or Optiglaze, the specimens were immersed in coffee, red wine, cola, or distilled water for 14 days. Color difference (ΔE₀₀) and surface roughness (Ra) were measured at baseline and after 7 and 14 days. Data were analyzed using three-way repeated measures ANOVA (p < 0.05). Polymer matrix composition and surface treatment significantly influenced color stability and surface roughness (p < 0.05). Coffee and red wine caused the greatest discoloration, particularly in Bis-GMA- and TEGDMA-containing materials, while Cerasmart demonstrated the highest color stability. Although Optiglaze reduced surface roughness, it was associated with increased color change over time. These results emphasize the role of polymer composition and surface treatment in the esthetic performance of hybrid ceramic CAD/CAM materials.