## 1 Introduction  
The use of interim restoration is intended for a short period; however, understanding the surface property of the material is necessary for optimal esthetics, strength, and functioning [1, 2]. In certain cases, such as implant loading and orthodontic and endodontic therapies, prolonged use of interim materials is required, which increases the need for optimal material surface strength and integrity while considering the influence of a complex oral environment [3, 4].  
Some clinical studies have suggested that interim restoration loses balanced occlusal contacts following the wear process, which causes an over eruption of teeth and loss of the ocausal clearance and vertical dimension of occlusion [5; 6]. In addition, surface roughness enhances plaque retention, promoting bacterial colonization, especially at the restorative margins, resulting in periodontal inflammation and infection. These drastic changes contribute to pulpal sensitivity, gingival recession, and tissue inflammation [7; 8]. Furthermore, inflamed soft tissues complicate the challenge of restorative rehabilitation. Thus, to prevent interference with the vertical dimension of occlusion of definitive restoration and to preserve the periodontal restorative interface oral health, an optimal quality of interim restoration is desired.  
One essential property of resin-based interim restorations is marginal integrity and adaptation, which influences the restorative retention, function, occlusion, and preservation of tooth structure. The accuracy of restorative marginal fit is critical for the long-term survival and prognosis of definitive restorations [9]. These crowns are not only valuable in terms of aesthetics and function but act as a blueprint for definitive restoration [9; 10]. Hence, the accuracy of the margins influences the success of the definitive restorations along with gingival health [11]. Moreover, any marginal misfit and disruption in crown adaptation in interim restorations will affect definitive restorative procedures and placement.  
Literature suggests that custom-made interim crowns produce a better result in terms of marginal integrity, particularly when employing the direct technique with resin polymers [12]. However, these custom-made techniques impose certain risks, such as the distortion of margins in early removal, delayed setting, irregular margins, and polymerization exotherm and shrinkage [13]. Hence, to overcome these drawbacks, operators have employed advanced technology that indirectly designs a precise and accurate interim crown, enhancing the outcome while restoring the prepared tooth with a definitive prosthesis. These contemporary methods include CAD-CAM, subtractive manufacturing techniques, and additive manufacturing methods, including 3D printing.  
It is considered that materials are not the only factor that influences the surface property and mechanical strength of the restoration [14; 15]. Fabrication techniques were also assumed to equally influence the surface characteristics and marginal integrity of the interim crown [16]. Contemporary digital technology interventions such as CAD/CAM and 3D printing have ease the revolutionized fabrication of interim restorations chairside in clinics [17]. These modern technologies efficiently use the digital image of the prepared tooth to design and fabricate the resin-based interim restoration. However, limited data is present to differentiate the critical properties of 3D-printed interim restorations compared to conventional and CAD-CAM methods. Thus, the present study aims to assess the influence of the fabrication techniques (CAD-CAM, conventional, and 3D printing) on the surface roughness, surface wear, and marginal misfit of interim crowns.