Impact of Various Mouthwashes on the Color Stability of Hybrid Ceramic and Reinforced Composite CAD/CAM Restorative Materials: An In Vitro Study

Caries control is essential for the long-term success of dental restorations, and the frequent use of mouthwashes may influence the esthetic properties of restorative materials. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of several commercially available mouthwashes on the color stability of resin-based CAD/CAM restorative materials. Three CAD/CAM materials were investigated: a hybrid ceramic (Cerasmart), a polymer-infiltrated ceramic (Vita Enamic), and a reinforced composite (Brilliant Crios). Rectangular specimens were immersed in Eludril Classic, Listerine Total Care, Listerine Advanced White, and distilled water (control). Color measurements were performed at baseline and after immersion periods up to 24 h using a digital spectrophotometer, and color differences (ΔE₀₀) were calculated. Statistical analysis revealed that both mouthwash type and immersion time had a statistically significant effect on color change (<i>p</i> ≤ 0.05). All tested materials exhibited ΔE₀₀ values exceeding the clinically acceptable threshold. These findings suggest that prolonged mouthwash use may compromise the esthetic longevity of resin-based CAD/CAM restorations. The null hypothesis was that prolonged use of mouthwash does not influence the color of resin-based CAD/CAM materials especially for those containing alcohol.