[Comparison of accuracy between visual and spectrophotometric shade matching]

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Color Science in Dentistry
• Restorative Dentistry

Background:

• Accurate shade matching is crucial for the aesthetic success of dental restorations.
• Visual shade matching can be subjective and prone to inaccuracies.
• Digital spectrophotometers offer objective color measurement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the accuracy of visual shade matching with spectrophotometric shade matching using the Vita Easyshade device.
• To evaluate the performance of Vita Easyshade for shade matching, particularly for teeth with shades not represented by standard shade tabs.

Main Methods:

• 120 participants with single anterior full ceramic restorations were enrolled.
• Participants were divided into visual (Group V) and Vita Easyshade (Group S) groups.
• Subgroups were created for shades matching (V1, S1) and not matching (V2, S2) shade tabs. Color differences (DeltaEab*) were calculated using Commission International de I'Eclairage Lab parameters.

Main Results:

• Spectrophotometric shade matching (DeltaEab*S = 2.23) was significantly more accurate than visual matching (DeltaEab*V = 3.92).
• For teeth with out-of-shade-tab colors, Vita Easyshade (DeltaEab*S2 = 2.27) outperformed visual matching (DeltaEab*V2 = 4.42).
• No significant difference was found between Vita Easyshade and visual matching when using shade tabs (DeltaEab*S1 = 2.12 vs. DeltaEab*V1 = 2.29).

Conclusions:

• The Vita Easyshade spectrophotometer provides superior accuracy for shade matching compared to visual methods, especially for challenging shades.
• Spectrophotometric analysis ensures better color reappearance and objective color assessment in dental restorations.
• This technology aids clinicians in achieving more predictable and aesthetically pleasing outcomes.