AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the inner surface of two ceramic systems: IPS Empress II (Ivoclar Vivadent, Germany) and In-Ceram Alumina (Vita Zahnfabrick, Germany) submitted to surface treatments, especially by Nd:YAG laser. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty samples were prepared in pellet form for each ceramic system according to manufacturers' specifications. The samples were stored at room temperature and then be subjected to surface treatment: without treatment (T0) (control), hydrofluoric acid-etched (T1), hydrofluoric acid-etched associated with the airborne particle-abraded (T2); CoJet system (T3), Nd:YAG laser (T4). The data were performed the statistical analysis by ANOVA and Tukey's test (p < 0.001). RESULTS: The group control (T0) of the ceramics, the analysis showed the lowest roughness values; for the System Alumina In-Ceram, treatment with hydrofluoric acid (T1), associated with hydrofluoric acid and airborne particle-abraded (T2) and Nd:YAG laser (T4), had no statistically significant difference, whereas for the IPS Empress System II treatment with hydrofluoric acid (T1) and hydrofluoric acid associated with airborne particle-abraded (T2), had no statistically significant difference between the system and also CoJet (T3) and hydrofluoric acid associated with the airborne particle-abraded (T2). Photomicrographs of scanning electron microscopy showed different characteristics to the treatments for each ceramic system. CONCLUSION: The IPS Empress II had the appearance of favoring the retention when treated with hydrofluoric acid, as well as its association with the airborne particle-abraded. Uncertainty in Alumina, treatment with hydrofluoric acid associated with the airborne particle-abraded and CoJet system and provided a surface with irregularities. With respect to the laser further studies should be performed for parameters that are ideal for your application. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The ceramic restorations are attractive due of their excellent esthetics and the ability to stay for long periods. However, the retention of ceramic requires further study.