Next-Level Shade Taking with OptiShade
If you are reading this, you should already be familiar with basic shade taking protocols. If not, please see my earlier post titled “A Simple Shade Taking Protocol”. If you have already read that post, let’s dive in.
Understanding that all cases are different and have varying levels of complexity, we have tools and equipment to support us in getting more detailed and accurate. One of the most important tools is a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a macro lens, which should be basic equipment in every dental office and dental laboratory. To get to the next level, we can also utilize a shade acquisition technology called OptiShade.
OptiShade is a dental device and software developed by Style Italiano. It is designed to assist dentists in accurately determining tooth shades for restorative procedures such as crown and bridge work, veneers, implants, and composite fillings. OptiShade utilizes advanced technology to streamline the shade-matching process, resulting in more precise and consistent color matching outcomes. At this current time, OptiShade is only compatible with Apple devices such as the iPhone and iPad.
Here’s an overview of why a dentist should consider using OptiShade:
- Accuracy: OptiShade employs advanced algorithms to analyze various factors such as lighting conditions, tooth structure, and surrounding tissues to provide highly accurate shade matching results. This helps dentists achieve optimal aesthetic outcomes for their patients.
- Efficiency: By automating the shade-matching process, OptiShade saves time for both dentists and patients. Dentists can quickly determine the appropriate shade without the need for manual comparisons, reducing chair time and improving workflow efficiency.
- Consistency: OptiShade helps maintain consistency in shade matching across different procedures and patients. This ensures that restorations blend seamlessly with the natural dentition, enhancing overall smile aesthetics.
- Patient Satisfaction: Accurately matched restorations contribute to improved patient satisfaction. Patients are more likely to be pleased with the appearance of their dental restorations when shades are precisely matched, leading to greater confidence and trust in the dentist’s skills.
Overall, OptiShade offers dentists a reliable tool for achieving accurate, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing shade matching results, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.
In our experience, OptiShade is very good in comparison to many other shade taking devices available on the market. Important to say, to utilize the OptiShade to its fullest capacity, the dental office and the laboratory must have the device.
Please click here to read more about OptiShade. OptiShade is distributed worldwide by Smile Line.
We’re thrilled to announce an exclusive promotional offer just for you! For a limited time only, you can purchase the OptiShade at an unbeatable price of $1,865.95, plus shipping (prices subject to change without notice). This incredible deal is made possible by Smile Line with the special discount code OPTI24.
- Regular Price: $1,985.95
- Promotional Price: $1,865.95
Disclaimer:
Please be advised that Zahntechnique does not receive any commission or incentives from the purchase of the promotional OptiShade offer mentioned above. This exclusive discount is provided solely by Smile Line USA and is not affiliated with Zahntechnique in any way.
This promotional offer aims to provide our valued clients with exceptional savings and value on OptiShade products.
A Simple Shade Taking Protocol
Overview
Shade matching in aesthetic dentistry can present challenges, but with careful consideration and proper protocols, it can be successfully achieved.
Material Selection
Material selection plays a crucial role in achieving an optimal match for the final restoration. Whether it’s zirconia, Lithium Di-Silicate, PFM, layered, or monolithic, the choice depends on factors such as the patient’s tooth shade, characterization, and translucency. It is advisable to entrust the decision to the dental technician, who possesses extensive experience with various materials.
Communication
Effective communication is paramount throughout the shade matching process. When the laboratory is local, arranging for the patient to visit and undergo shade matching directly with the technician is ideal. However, if the laboratory is located elsewhere, a specific protocol should be followed.
Protocol
The protocol involves capturing various photographs:
1. Full Face
Full face photo, including a smile, and a retracted full-face photo.
2. Shade Tabs
Close-up photo of the aesthetic area to be treated, using the closest matching shade tab, positioned with the incisal edge facing adjacent to the tooth being matched.
3. Darker Shade Tab
Repeat the close-up photo as in Step 2, but with a shade one step darker
4. Lighter Shade Tab
Repeat the close-up photo as in Step 2, but with a shade one step lighter.
5. Stump Shade Tab
When applicable, take a stump shade photo with the closest matching shade tab.
Tips
- Ensure that the shade tabs are clearly visible and readable in all photographs.
- Maintain a consistent camera angle to avoid distortions caused by light reflections.
- Target the camera to the facial aspect of the tooth with a slight downward angle; angling from the incisal edge upwards should be avoided.
- Photography equipment, such as ring flashes or twin flashes, should be carefully calibrated to prevent overexposure, which can hinder accurate shade matching.
- Avoid using softboxes or filters for shade photography, as they can introduce errors.
This protocol provides a fundamental workflow for shade matching. However, personalized guidance and assistance can be provided to ensure confidence in treatment planning for aesthetic cases.
I am available to personally review this protocol with you, ensuring readiness for your next patient’s aesthetic treatment plan.