A Clinical Comparison Between New and Conventional Methods for Quantification of Intended and Fabricated Dental Porcelain Color
Samah Iskander Jaffer, Abdulwahab Ismail Al-Kholani
Introduction: The accurate selection of dental porcelain shades is crucial for achieving natural-looking
and aesthetically pleasing restorations. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of various shade
selection methods, including visual assessment, spectrophotometry, and intraoral scanning. Aims and
Objectives: This study aims to improve the accuracy of shade selection in prosthodontics. To achieve
this, it will compare digital, intraoral, and visual methods, identify factors influencing shade selection,
develop educational guidelines for dentists, and minimize color discrepancies between chosen and final
shades. Methods: A diverse group of 37 participants with 111 shades of teeth were involved. Three shade
selection methods were employed: visual assessment using a shade guide, spectrophotometry with the
VITA Easyshade Compact, and intraoral scanning with the Medit i700. The accuracy of each method
was determined by comparing the selected shade to the fabricated porcelain restoration. Results: While
digital methods (spectrophotometry and intraoral scanning) simplified the shade selection process,
visual assessment, especially when performed by experienced dentists, consistently demonstrated
higher accuracy. Factors such as lighting conditions and individual variations in color perception
influenced the reliability of visual assessment. Discussion: The study emphasizes the importance of a
comprehensive approach to shade selection, combining both visual and digital methods. Digital tools
offer objective measurements, while visual assessment captures subtle nuances in color and ensures
patient satisfaction. Conclusion: The optimal shade selection method depends on the specific clinical
situation and the dentist's expertise. By incorporating both visual and digital techniques, dental
professionals can enhance the accuracy and reliability of shade selection, ultimately leading to more
natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing dental restorations.
