Techniques for Optimal Shade Matching in Dental Prosthetics
Posted on 2/2/2024 by Dr. David Wanserski
When you receive a dental prosthetic like a crown, bridge, or denture, having it match your natural teeth shade is likely important to you. The right shade match helps restore the natural appearance of your smile. There are key techniques prosthodontists utilize during the process for best matching results.
Initial Shade Assessment
An in-depth initial shade assessment sets the right foundation. Under various standardized lighting conditions, your prosthodontist will evaluate your overall color and shade, comparing it to control tooth color tabs. They determine the best shade match across parameters like hue, chroma, value, translucency, and characterization. Getting this base analysis right guides subsequent steps.
Try-In Pastes and Temporaries
You will return to try specialized pastes and temporaries in the matched shade. This enables previewing and adjustments as needed. Testing your smile under various lighting ensures a pleasing natural color blend. Your input before finalization is key for an optimal match.
Layering for Characterization
Dental laboratories build prosthetics from porcelain and composite materials that can replicate teeth shades, textures, and effects. The lab professional stratifies colors and thicknesses using customized layering techniques, introducing visual characterizations similar to your natural tooth structures. This labor-intensive process achieves true shade harmony.
Cement Shade Considerations
The type of cement used during final bonding can also impact shade outcomes. Translucent cements prevent shadow-through of underlying tooth structure, which may skew the color perception of the restoration. Depending on your situation, your dentist may recommend a cement shade supporting the intended prosthetic shade.
Home Care to Maintain Shade Match
Be diligent with daily oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings to prevent prosthetic shade changes over time. Accumulation of plaque, tartar, and stains can distort color matching. Avoid quick-staining foods and habits like coffee, tea, red wine, berries, smoking, and chewing tobacco. Ask your dentist which oral health products are safest for your restorations.
Consult Our Skilled Prosthodontists
The extensive training and expertise of our prosthodontist allows optimal shade-match management from start to finish. We aim to ensure your complete confidence and smile satisfaction. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
Dental Blog | Wausau, WI | Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry Dr. David Wanserski, DDS, from Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry, has created this informative blog to help educate the community. Learn more. Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry, 550 N. 17th Ave. Wausau, WI 54401 ^ (715) 848-2435 ^ wanserskidental.com ^ 12/5/2024 ^ Related Phrases: dental implants Wausau WI ^
