If you’ve ever had a root canal or an incredibly damaged tooth that needed repair, then there’s a very good chance your dentist fitted you with a dental crown. These tooth-shaped caps are made from resilient materials that bond with your tooth to cover and protect it. Many patients worry, however, that their restoration will stand out from the rest of their teeth and leave them feeling self-conscious about their appearance. Fortunately, dental crowns can be customized to match your pearly whites for a seamless smile. If you’re curious about how this is done, keep reading to learn more!
What Shade Are My Teeth?
Your dentist will want your dental crown to match your natural teeth as closely as possible so you can both be happy with the final product. Because the outer layer, or enamel, is somewhat translucent, it reflects light differently. This can impact how we visually interpret the tone. As a result, there are several factors to consider when finding the right shade including the:
- Value. This refers to how light or dark your teeth are.
- Chroma. This describes whether the color is densely saturated.
- Hue. This defines the actual shade of your teeth and is usually a tone of gray, yellow, or red.
These elements are observable to the naked eye but might shift depending on the lighting in the room, what color clothes you have on, and whether you’re wearing makeup. Don’t be surprised if your dentist asks that you remove your lipstick or wear a gray cover to be able to see these different aspects objectively.
How Does My Dentist Compare Colors?
Depending on the technology they have on site, there are a few tools your dentist can use to find the color that most closely resembles your natural tone. They are:
- A shade guide. This is the most traditional method and consists of a plastic or metal card that’s lined on either side with fake teeth in a variety of hues. Your dentist can hold this directly to your mouth to compare colors and find the ones that are the most similar.
- Photographs. Some dentists photograph your teeth from various angles to find a match digitally.
- A spectrometer. This small electronic device can be used to interpret color.
Once your dentist selects a couple of possible options, they’ll likely show them to you to get your feedback. You’re the one who will be living with the decision daily, after all. Then, once your dental crown is created and installed, your smile will be refurbished with a beautiful restoration, and no one will know the difference!
About the Author
Dr. Shahram Modarres has more than two decades of experience providing patients with a full range of dental services, including dental crowns. He earned his dental doctorate at the New York University School of Dentistry and has since attended countless additional continuing educational courses to stay current with the latest technologies and treatments. He takes pride in refurbishing your smile with durable solutions meant to last. You’re welcome to request a consultation appointment on the website or by calling (301) 816-9400.