The art of clinical shade matching of resin-based composite materials

The present article is the second in a series of three on shade matching in restorative dentistry. The first article provided an overview and general advice on shade taking. This article goes on to discuss what factors should be considered when choosing the most appropriate shade guide in relation to resin-based composite materials. It offers practical advice on how shade guides may be used to best effect in determining an optimal match with respect to optics between the dental hard tissues and resin-based composite products to achieve highly natural imperceptible results when working in the aesthetic zone. CPD/Clinical Relevance: The art of shade matching is a fundamental clinical skill in restorative dentistry to ensure that the best possible aesthetic outcome is achieved when working with resin-based composite materials.