Art and Science of Shade Matching
Mariya Khalid, BDS, FCPD & Mohammad Ali Chughtai, BDS, MHPE
Shade selection is a crucial step in restorative procedures. Its goal is to create restorations that match the patient’s existing dentition and look aesthetically pleasing. This article discusses the clinical challenges that can make proper shade selection difficult, categorizing these challenges into factors related to the dentist, the environment for shade matching, the materials used for selection, and the patient. A checklist and a form for shade selection have been developed to prevent oversights and improve communication between dentists and laboratories, ultimately leading to better, more aesthetically pleasing restorations.
Shade Taking Methods - Dr. Jack Ringer, DDS
Taking techniques implemented in his practice, Dr. Jack Ringer dissects shade-taking methods in this in-depth tutorial. Using the Vitapan 3D Master shade guide, Dr.Ringer explains the role that hue, value, and chroma play when capturing this necessary data to send to the laboratory for fabrication.
Overcoming Shade Challenges – Masking a dark preparation for a brighter smile – Sung Bin Im, MDC, CTD, BS and Jae Seon Lim, DDS, FACP, CDT
Tooth discoloration can occur due to several factors, such as natural aging, trauma, prenatal conditions, dental procedures like endodontic therapy, dental restorations, and consumption of food dyes, beverages, and tobacco. These internal and external factors can greatly affect tooth color, so it’s important to consider cosmetic improvements when requested by the patient carefully.
Restoring teeth with dark underlying tooth structures can be quite challenging. Ensuring both optimal aesthetics and patient satisfaction without compromising dental health requires a comprehensive approach.