IPS Empress Shade Determination

Optimum integration in the oral cavity of the patient is a major prerequisite for a true-to-nature all-ceramic restoration. The overall esthetic result of an all-ceramic restoration is influenced by the following factors:

• shade of the preparation,
• shade, translucency and thickness of the restoration
• indication and shade of the cementation material

Shade determination of the natural tooth

After tooth cleaning, the tooth shade is determined on the unprepared tooth and/or the adjacent teeth, taking the individual characteristics into account.

During the fabrication of highly esthetic restorations, the influence of the shade of the preparation on the final result is a decisive aspect. This is especially important when preparations are severely discoloured . Only if the dentist correctly determines the shade of the preparation and effectively transmits it to the laboratory can the desired esthetics be achieved in a targeted fashion.

Programat offers a convenient solution for shade determination. With the help of the patented Digital Shade Assistant (DSA) the selection of the tooth shade can be achieved instantly. The software compares the tooth to be analyzed with three pre-selected shade guide teeth in one image. A special image processing software recognizes the tooth to be analyzed and the three shade guide teeth. The best matching tooth shade will be displayed on the furnace screen.

Die shade selection

The IPS Natural Die Material shade guide helps to determine the shade of the prepared tooth. This enables the technician to fabricate a model die similar to the prepared tooth of the patient, on the basis of which the correct shade and brightness values of the all-ceramic restoration will be selected.