A Hybrid Approach Using AI-Assisted Chairside Staining for an Anterior Metal-Ceramic Crown

To describe a hybrid approach for a metal-ceramic anterior crown, combining traditional ceramic layering with a chairside staining technique guided by recipes generated using an artificial intelligence-based software.

The clinical case presented a step-by-step protocol from both laboratory and clinical perspectives for the replacement of a single anterior metal-ceramic crown in a 32-year-old male patient dissatisfied with crown color and gingival darkening. Clinical examination revealed a slight color mismatch, shape discrepancy, and inadequate gingival adaptation, with a metal post-and-core contributing to the darkened appearance. The final color reproduction was achieved using a chairside staining approach (Vintage Art Universal, Shofu, Kyoto, Japan) guided by Matisse recipes (Labmatisse BV, Wijchen, The Netherlands). This approach reduced treatment time and cost while achieving an optimal esthetic outcome on the first attempt, with a color difference (0.5 units) below the ΔE₀₀ perceptibility threshold, eliminating the need for additional color corrections.

The hybrid approach proved feasible for integrating laboratory procedures with chairside staining protocols. This strategy resulted in an esthetically satisfactory outcome for an anterior metal-ceramic crown, highlighting the potential of artificial intelligence-driven staining solutions.

The artificial intelligence-assisted chairside staining approach offers clinicians and dental technicians a practical tool for achieving accurate color reproduction in ceramic materials. Applicable to both layered and monolithic restorations, this technique enhances esthetic outcomes while improving treatment efficiency.