As an adjunct to our lab communication I have found it incredibly helpful to employ shade technology. I use the Easyshade Advanced by Vita. What the technology allows me to do is narrow the field of chroma and hue choices down, before I reach for a shade guide. It also allows everyone in my office to feel equally capable at getting the basic shade information. In years past taking a shade was challenging, team members were hesitant to participate for fear of getting it incorrect. The technology has taken that apprehension out of the process, and they are happy to get the initial reading.
The new technology allows me to gather shade information in a variety of ways. I can get a single shade for a natural tooth, as well as different readings for cervical, middle and incisal on a natural tooth. In addition we can verify the shade of a restoration, shade tab or block. Once I have gathered the shade information with my Easyshade, I then confirm with the appropriate tabs. I verify value, chroma and hue. I utilize the tabs in photography that will accompany the case to the lab.
I must say I was a skeptic about the value of computerized shade technology, until I had the opportunity to have it in my hands and experience the positive impact it has in practice. We show it to our patients, and explain the technology, ” This is very similar to the technology at Home Depot that can create a paint color to match something you bring in from home.” Patients love it, and you can find our their hardware store preference, a patient the other day responded with ” I am more of a Lowe’s man, but I’ll still let you use it.”
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