The VITA 3D-MASTER shade system covers virtually all tooth shades that occur in nature and is designed to provide systematic coverage of the entire tooth color space. The concept of the 3D-MASTER system is based on a color classification principle where the values of lightness, chroma and hue have been positioned an equal distance from each other. Therefore, the shade determination can be easily carried out according to systematic criteria.

When taking a shade, the dentist has three simple steps to follow:
First, determine the value (lightness) by selecting the closest match from one of five value groups.
Second, determine the Chroma within the value group from three choices.
Third, pick the hue by determining if the tooth has a more yellow or red cast.
Step 1: Lightness (Value)First, use the top row of teeth on the Toothguide (1M1, 2M1, 3M1, 4M1, 5M1) to determine lightness level, making a simple yes/no decision as to whether the Toothguide tooth matches.
  Step 2: Color Saturation (Chroma)In the second step, determine the color saturation (chroma) following the same principle by spreading the samples out like a fan.
  Step 3: HueFinally, check whether the natural tooth is more yellowish (L) or more reddish (R) than the Toothguide sample. By following these three steps you can determine the natural tooth shade faster and reliably.

Shade-Taking Tips

Take the shade before preparation. Dehydration after prepping makes the shade appear too white

Tooth shade should be determined in daylight or under standardized daylight lamps (not operation lamps)

Eyes tire after 5-7 seconds; make a selection quickly and accept your first decision

Avoid bright colors in the shade-taking environment; no lipstick, tinted eyeglasses or bright-colored clothes

Download a PDF shade-taking guide here

• VITA tooth shade determination (10114E)