Dental Technology

SHADE MATCHING: TIPS TO GET IT RIGHT

Let’s face it. Shading is a subjective process. Explaining translucencies and colors to another individual is difficult, even with tools and shade guides.


Let’s face it. Shading is a subjective process. Explaining translucencies and colors to another individual is difficult, even with tools and shade guides.

While a shade tab helps us to approximate the hue, chroma and value, it does not tell us about other subtle differences. To get better results, a photograph can make all the difference. Pictures allow the dental technician to see the shading and unique characteristics of the tooth, as well as features of the adjacent dentition.
 
 

HOW TO TAKE A GREAT PICTURE

The best pictures are taken with a high-end DSLR camera with a ring flash. But the reality is not everyone has that kind of equipment. We often receive images snapped with nothing more than an iPhone. Regardless of your camera equipment, you can make sure you’re capturing the best possible image with these simple tips:

  • Include a sheet of white paper as well as your choice of shade tab in the photo. This makes it easy for us to color correct the photo, if necessary.
  • Take the photo in natural light, if possible.
  • Remove anything that may give the photo an odd color cast, like a blue patient drape.

 
 

SUBMITTING PHOTOS

Just send a hard copy of your photo with your case or transmit one electronically, either via email or attached to your MyDDS Lab online prescription form.

Read more about shade matching and how you can ensure patient satisfaction, download our white paper, “Shade Matching in Restorative Dentistry.”

Shade matching - Tips to get it right!

Similar posts

Stay up-to-date with the latest in dental news by signing up for our newsletter!

By subscribing, you'll receive regular updates on advancements in dental technology, tips for restoring a healthy smile, and news about our laboratory.

Signing up is easy - just enter your email address and click "subscribe." You can unsubscribe at any time if you no longer wish to receive our newsletters.

Thank you for your interest, we look forward to keeping you informed