Purpose: This study evaluated the effect of matrix type on the surface roughness of resins for provisional crowns and fixed partial dentures. Materials and methods: Ninety specimens of two acrylic resins (Trim II, Tab2000) and one bis-acryl composite (Protemp II Garant) were fabricated using one of three matrices: irreversible hydrocolloid (Cavex CA37), poly(vinyl siloxane) (Aquasil) or vacuum-formed matrix (Bio-flow Hard). The sample size for each resin-matrix combination was 10. The vestibular face of one natural maxillary central incisor was used as a model to fabricate all the specimens, following the custom fabrication technique. The average roughness measurements, Ra (mum), were obtained using a profilometer, and the data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U-tests. The results were contrasted against the surface roughness of the tooth using a one-sample t-test. Results: Aquasil and vacuum-formed matrix had a smoother surface than Cavex CA37 regardless of the resin tested (p < 0.05). Protemp II Garant had the smoothest surface regardless of the matrix used, with no significant differences when polymerized against the three different matrices. Trim II polymerized against Cavex CA37 had a rougher (p < 0.05) surface than Aquasil or vacuum-formed matrix. Tab2000 had the smoothest surface (p < 0.05) when polymerized against a vacuum-formed matrix. Conclusions: There is no universal matrix that produces the smoothest surface: this depends on the compatibility between the resin and the matrix. Protemp II Garant polymerized against Cavex CA37 matrix yields a surface that is smooth enough not to require polishing unless this surface is adjusted.