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Shade selection performed by novice dental professionals and colorimeter.

Klemetti E, Matela AM, Haag P, Kononen M

Faculty of Dentistry, Kuwait University, Kuwait. klemetti@hsc.edu.kw

The objective of this study was to test inter-observer variability in shade selection for porcelain restorations, using three different shade guides: Vita Lumin Vacuum, Vita 3D-Master and Procera. Nineteen young dental professionals acted as observers. The results were also compared with those of a digital colorimeter (Shade Eye Ex; Shofu, Japan). Regarding repeatability, no significant differences were found between the three shade guides, although repeatability was relatively low (33-43%). Agreement with the colorimetric results was also low (8-34%). In conclusion, shade selection shows moderate to great inter-observer variation. In teaching and standardizing the shade selection procedure, a digital colorimeter may be a useful educational tool.

Published 13 January 2006 in J Oral Rehabil, 33(1): 31-5.
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