Post‐curing effects on mechanical properties staining resistance of a 3D‐printed resin versus a direct composite for definitive restorations

) were recorded. Data were analyzed using a generalized linear model and Bonferroni tests (α = 5%). The direct composite showed higher flexural and CS than the 3D-printed resin. Post-curing improved the mechanical properties of the printed material, although values remained inferior to those of the composite. Both materials exhibited color changes after staining, with RW causing the greatest discoloration. Polishing and whitening reduced staining but did not always restore baseline values. Although post-curing enhances 3D-printed resin performance, its mechanical behavior and color stability remain inferior to those of conventional composites, indicating the need for further optimization before clinical use as definitive restorations.