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Relationship between tooth shade value and skin color: an observational study
Leila Jahangiri1, Suzanne B Reinhardt, Rita V Mehra
1Department of Prosthodontics and Biomaterials, New Jersey Dental School, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Newark, NJ 07103-0370, USA. jahangle@umdnj.edu
The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
|February 21, 2002
Summary
Tooth shade value is inversely related to skin color, with older adults more likely to have darker teeth. This finding impacts prosthodontic treatment planning for optimal aesthetic outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Dental Aesthetics
- Prosthodontics
- Anthropology
Background:
- Limited scientific data exists on the correlation between tooth shade and skin color.
- This knowledge gap can hinder prosthodontists in selecting artificial teeth that harmonize with a patient's complexion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a potential relationship between tooth shade and skin color.
- To provide data for improved aesthetic dental treatment planning.
Main Methods:
- An observational study involving 119 participants aged 18-80.
- Tooth shade assessed using a Vita-Lumin guide; skin tone categorized using makeup shades.
- Data analyzed using chi-square and Fisher's exact tests (alpha=.05).
Main Results:
- Age was significantly associated with tooth shade (P<.001), with older individuals having darker teeth.
- Significant differences in tooth shade were observed across different skin colors (P<.05).
- Fair-complexioned individuals were more likely to have darker teeth (low value).
Conclusions:
- Tooth shade value and skin color show an inverse relationship.
- Older adults tend to have darker teeth (lower value), a key consideration for dental prosthetics.
- Findings suggest personalized shade selection based on age and skin tone.