The aim of this in vitro study is to evaluate the masking ability of polymer-infiltrated
ceramic-network materials (PICN) with different translucencies and thicknesses on
multiple types of substrates.Ceramic samples were prepared of VITA ENAMIC blocks in
two different translucencies (2M2-T, 2M2-HT) in a thickness range of 0.5-2.5 mm (±0.05
mm). Layered specimens were obtained using composite substrates in nine shades and
transparent try-in paste. Spectral reflectance of specimens was measured using a Konica
Minolta CM-3720d spectrophotometer and D65 standard illumination. CIEDE2000 color
difference (ΔE00 ) between two samples was evaluated using 50%:50% perceptibility
and acceptability thresholds. Specular component of the reflection was examined with
Specular Component Excluded (SCE) and Included (SCI) settings. Statistical evaluation
was performed by linear regression analysis, Kruskal-Wallis test, and multiplicative
effect analysis.An increase in thickness of 0.5 mm reduces ΔE00 of HT samples to 73.5%,
of T samples to 60.5% (p < 0.0001). Five substrates with HT specimens, and three substrates
with T specimens had significantly different results from average (p < 0.05). There
is a significant difference between SCE and SCI data depending on the wavelength (p
< 0.0001).Masking ability of PICN materials is influenced by the thickness and translucency
of the ceramic, and by the substrate. Reflection of the examined PICN material is
characterized by both diffuse and specular reflection.Although PICN materials have
been available on the market for 10 years now, there is a lack of information regarding
their masking ability. Acquiring in-depth data and thereby practical experience of
the factors affecting the esthetics of PICN materials is essential for creating perfectly
lifelike restorations.