Differences in Shade Perception among Post-Graduate Students and Dental Specialists

Abstract

Background: Attaining ideal esthetics in terms of accurate shade selection is fundamental in contemporary restorative dentistry, which is affected by multiple factors. Literature suggests varied response regarding shade matching among specialists and post-graduate students.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate differences in shade perception between post-graduate students and dental specialists, focusing on their ability to accurately match hue and chroma using standardized shade guides.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 156 participants at Khyber College of Dentistry, Peshawar including post-graduate students and specialists from various departments. Shade perception was assessed using four preselected VITA Classical shade tabs (C3, D2, B1, A4) under standardized lighting. Participants matched the hue and chroma of each tab using a separate shade guide. Data were analyzed using SPSS v25, chi square test and one sample t-test were used to identify statistically significant differences based on operator level with varying age and gender.

Results: Out of 156 participants, differences in shade perception between postgraduate students (n=132) and dental specialists (n=24) were evaluated across four shade tabs. Specialists demonstrated significantly higher accuracy in Tab 1 chroma matching (p =0.006) and Tab 2 hue matching (p =0.005), highlighting their superior performance. However, postgraduate students exceeded specialists in certain tasks, notably in Tab 4 chroma matching (p =0.106), though this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: While specialists showed superior shade perception in specific tasks, post-graduate students demonstrated comparable accuracy in many areas, indicating effective training. The findings suggest that experience enhances precision in shade-matching.