Evaluating digital imaging in color selection

One of the most important procedures of prosthetic dental treatment is the determination of the color of the restoration. When measuring color in today's dentistry, the dentist's visual perception is often used. Color measurements using visual perception are influenced by many factors. To overcome this situation and record color measurements mathematically, color measurement methods have been developed. In our work, the success of color measurement obtained from a digital camera is evaluated. In our study, L*a*b* values were obtained by analyzing all colors of the Vita Classical shade guide with spectrophotometer from the middle 1/3 area. Subsequently, images were obtained using a tripod and light cabinet to ensure standardization of each color with digital camera. L*a*b* values were recorded by performing color analysis with photoshop in the middle 1/3 area of the obtained images. L*a*b* values were saved in previously prepared forms. Statistical analyzes of the obtained data were conducted. Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance was used to compare the values obtained from a digital camera and spectrophotometer. After color measurements, the difference in color (ΔE) was statistically significant (p <0.001). The lowest ΔE value from the 16 colors was D2 color, the highest ΔE value was B3 color. Digital cameras are suitable for clinical use for color measurement, but the accuracy is questionable. It was concluded that much work is needed. Keywords: Digital camera, spectrophotometer, shade guide