Rilevamento del colore e classificazione delle discromie dentali

Objectives

To consider methods for assessing tooth color and to describe the classification of dental discolorations.

Materials and methods

The author describes the color characteristics of dental tissues and the methods of color evaluation (subjective or objective by means of a spectrophotometer). The intrinsic and extrinsic tooth discolorations and their etiologies are examined.

Results and conclusions

Intrinsic discolorations may be pre-eruttive, if formed during the development of tissues that make up the tooth, or post-eruptive, if formed after the eruption of teeth. The extrinsic discolorations or pigments are the most common and thus are the reasons where patient asks for a bleaching treatment more frequently. In fact, they cannot be discolored, but cleaned. They are most easily removed with professional procedures and with a good compliance of the patient at home.