The Effectiveness of a Shade-Matching Training Program on the Dentists' Ability to Match Teeth Color.

Aim Of The Study: To study the effectiveness of a structured shade-match training program on dentists' ability to match teeth colors.

Methods: Forty dentists were selected by convenient sampling with normal color vision. The training program is based on visual attention concept and was divided into two parts (educational and training module). Level of knowledge of color was assessed pre and post using a questionnaire. Shade-matching ability was assessed pre and post by using four tabs of the VITA Linearguide 3D-MASTER shade guide (4R1.5, 5M1, 2L.15, 3L1.5). Statistical analysis used pair t test, Wilcoxon test.

Results: About 52.5% (n = 21) were female and 47.5% (n = 19) were male. The subjects were advanced general practitioners/GP and restorative dentists (40%, n = 16), and prosthodontists (20%, n = 8). The mean level of knowledge pre and post the training program showed a statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0.05). Shade-match ability was significant in the mean value between pre-test and post-test (p ≤ 0.05). The mean of ΔE for the shade-matching tabs was highest in 5M1 Tab (3.55 ± 2.91) followed by 4R1.5 (2.00 ± 1.30) and 2L1.5 (1.55 ± 1.40). The least ΔE was in 3L1.5 (1.54 ± 1.45).

Conclusion: The training program that is based on visual attention was effective. The training program has increased self-assessment level of knowledge for all subjects and improved the final shade-matching performance.

Clinical Significance: Visual shade matching is currently the most frequently applied clinical method for shade matching. Assessing colors and matching shades are vital steps in aesthetic dentistry. In the absence of knowledge, shade-matching skills cannot be mastered effectively. Clinicians can improve their ability to differentiate colors through a short training regimen. Being aware of the whole process of assessing color and the factors affecting shade-matching practice will lead to a significant improvement in the ability to match dental shades. (J Esthet Restor Dent 29:E33-E43, 2017).