Comparative Evaluation of Shade Selection Reliability: Visual Assessment, Intraoral Scanning, and Photographic Techniques Publisher

Summary: Can color matching in prosthetic dentistry be improved? Research suggests intraoral scanning is the most reliable technique, outperforming visual methods significantly. #DentalResearch #Prosthetics

Atri F ; Rahmani F ; Memarian M ; Pirooz P
Source: International Journal of Dentistry Published:2026

Abstract

Purpose: The critical role of color matching in prosthetic dentistry underscores the necessity of identifying the most dependable shade selection technique, thereby reducing the incidence of dissatisfaction in esthetic dental outcomes. This research evaluated the reliability of the field’s three predominant shade selection techniques (visual assessment, intraoral scanning, and photography). Materials and Methods: A group of 26 individuals with nearly pristine maxillary right central incisors (free from wear, discoloration, or enamel defects) aged between 20 and 40 years was selected for this study. The color matching of these teeth was conducted using three methods: visual assessment by three specialized evaluators, intraoral scanning, and photographic documentation (utilizing both a single-lens reflex (SLR) camera and a smartphone). These procedures were repeated after a fortnight, and the reliability of each method was assessed and compared through the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) test (with a significance threshold set at 0.05). Results: The outcomes revealed a notable disparity in the reliability of different shade selection approaches (p < 0.05). Reliability ratings were as follows: intraoral scanning at 92.3%, visual assessment at 61.5%, SLR camera photography at 15.4%, and smartphone photography at 7.7%. Although the results initially favored visual assessment, this method suffered significant inter-evaluator reliability issues. Conclusions: The findings suggest that intraoral scanning is the most reliable method for accurate color determination of teeth, outperforming visual assessments. The use of photographic images, regardless of the capture device, proved to be the least reliable method. Clinical Significance: Achieving an exact color match is crucial for the success of any restorative dental procedure. The most reliable method for this precision is through an intraoral scanner. Copyright © 2026 Faezeh Atri et al. International Journal of Dentistry published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.