A system for reliable composite shade matching: Custom shade tabs and an intra-oral mockup.

OBJECTIVE: This article introduced a systematic approach to matching composite and tooth shades to create esthetic restorations that visually integrate seamlessly with the patient's tooth and surrounding dentition. A basic explanation of color science was presented to aid the clinician in adopting this systematic approach to color matching. To demonstrate the need for custom shade guides, an objective analysis of composites from different companies was performed by recording the color coordinate values of multiple composites and then calculating CIEDE2000 color differences. Different locations on the tooth were analyzed using the same identified shade from different companies, as well as using the same composite shade applied in different thicknesses. A case report documented the clinical application of these shade matching techniques. CLINICAL CONSIDERATIONS: Shade matching, particularly in the anterior esthetic region, can be challenging, which can result in patient dissatisfaction with the esthetic result. Stock shade tabs are not a reliable indicator of actual composite shades. CONCLUSIONS: The most predictable esthetic results were achieved by using custom shade guides as an entry point, followed by a direct composite color mockup intraorally. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: To consistently meet the esthetic demands of today's patients, dentists need reliable tools when selecting a composite shade for restorations. Composites with the same shade designation vary in color and shade designation cannot be relied upon for accurate shade selection. The use of custom shade guides and an intra-oral mockup can enhance the esthetic outcome.

A Step-by-Step Approach to Esthetic Excellence: Every Detail Matters.

Social media has flooded the Internet with beautiful "before and after" photographs of porcelain restorations. While these images can help promote the benefits of cosmetic dentistry, one of the problems this can lead to is patients mistakenly assuming that such restorations are simple to achieve. They may fail to realize that multiple steps need to be taken to attain such esthetic results, with each step requiring meticulous attention to detail. What some patients may not appreciate is the precision that goes into every step and which is critical to achieving long-term success. From preparation design and material choice, to selecting the correct bonding protocol and cements, no steps in the restorative process can be overlooked or deemed less important than others. The case presented describes a smile rehabilitation with proper isolation and cementation protocols.

A Systematic Approach to Full-Mouth Rehabilitation of a Complex Case Using a Digital Workflow, Proper Isolation.

To achieve excellence in dentistry, a multitude of steps needs to be completed. From performing a thorough history, to diagnosis and treatment planning, all the way to accurate insertion of the restorations, every aspect of the restorative process requires careful thought and precision, especially in a complex case. This article describes a stepwise approach to completing a full-mouth rehabilitation using an entirely digital approach. Additionally, it discusses ideal measures of isolation and bonding as pertaining to all-ceramic restorations. Through utilizing a systematic strategy, the clinician can establish a predictable path to ensure a successful result.

The Effect of Isolation and Dehydration on Shade Matching.

Rubber dams are frequently used to enable clinicians to achieve better visualization and isolation for dental procedures. Growing in popularity thanks in part to an increasing number of techniques facilitating their placement, rubber dams are able to be used for myriad restorative procedures, including crown and veneer preparation and cementation. An effect of rubber dam use is reduction of saliva, which causes temporary dehydration of the isolated teeth. In turn, this dehydration affects shade matching, an important aspect of esthetic outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine the extent that shade is altered from baseline due to dehydration from rubber dam use during restorative procedures, and, furthermore, to determine the length of time required for teeth to rehydrate back to their baseline shade.

Porcelain laminate veneers: restorative management.

This article presents the case of a young adult woman who presented with esthetic complaints years after conventional orthodontics. The treatment plan the patient ultimately selected was the placement of 10 indirect porcelain laminate veneers.