Color management

One of the most rewarding experiences for a cosmetic dentist is placing a restoration that harmoniously blends with the surrounding dentition. To obtain this result, one must master the science and art of dental color. Although there have been substantial advances in color teaching during the past few decades, there are still major shortcomings in the development of predictable shades of restorative materials. With the recent influx of new dental materials, and the demand of patients to improve their smiles, the dental profession is finding new solutions to help improve the management of color within the dental profession. This review highlights some important issues in color management from both the clinical and technological points of view.