Characterization of universal chromatic resin-based composites in terms of cell toxicity and viscoelastic behavior

•Universal chromatic RBCs are based either on structural coloring or on pigments.•Structurally colored RBCs generally led to lower mechanical properties but a better ability to absorb shock.•The cytotoxicity was comparable for all examined materials.•Universal chromatic RBCs can be classified in the regular RBCs class.