Natural, polarized light and the choice of composite: a key to success in shade matching of direct anterior restorations- Part I

Abstract

The biggest challenge while restoring anterior teeth is shade matching. Hue, chroma, value, opacity, translucency, intensity and anatomy must be seen to be reproduced. To see we need light, knowing that there is a strong relation between the nature of light and the components of natural teeth. This article enlightens the way to do the shade matching and the stratification of anterior teeth by choosing the relevant materials to mimic the nature. The physical properties of natural and polarized light will be studied to understand their correlation with dental materials and natural teeth to use them in the best combination.