Color Comparison of Two Shade Guides

Purpose: The aim of this study was to analyze color parameters and color compatibility of two randomly chosen Vita shade guides, as well as to propose possible clinical guidelines. Materials and Methods: Data were recorded using a colorimeter set to standard illuminant source C and the CIE L*a*b* system. A custom adapter system, which allowed a measuring area at the middle third of the tabs, was produced. Each of 42 tabs was recorded one time each on three different days. Color distribution was examined in diagrams whose coordinates were L*a*b* and L*C*H° color coordinate pairs. Color coordinate ranges and coverage error were examined using the corresponding equations and statistical methods. Results: The method repeatability was approximately ΔE* = 0.1. Color difference ranges of Vitapan Classical and Vitapan 3D Master were 14.3 and 19.2, respectively. Color coordinate ranges of Vitapan Classical were as follows: ΔL* = 12.8; Δa* = 1.7; Δb* = 9.0; ΔC* = 9.0; and ΔH° = 7.4. Corresponding values for Vitapan 3D Master were ΔL* = 15.3; Δa* = 3.4; Δb* = 16.3; ΔC* = 16.6; and ΔH° = 10.5. Coverage error of Vitapan 3D Master to Vitapan Classical was 1.4 ± 0.6, while vice versa it was 2.0 ± 1.5. Conclusion: Compared to Vitapan Classical, chromaticity ranges of Vitapan 3D Master were extended in the desired directions: hue was extended toward yellow-red, and saturation was extended toward more saturated tabs. Compared to Vitapan Classical, Vitapan 3D Master tabs were more uniformly spaced. The examined shade guides were found to be color compatible.