Discuss the case
Agree the clinical aims, tooth position, restoration type and records needed. Consider how the restoration should relate to the natural teeth around it.
SINGLE COLOUR MATCH
Single tooth colour matching.
Every detail matters.
A bespoke anterior colour-matching process with dental ceramist Natalie Cartwright in Saint Helens, built around photographic information, individual ceramic builds and close clinician–ceramist communication.
THE SINGLE ANTERIOR · FORM, COLOUR & SURFACE
A SHARED PROCESS
More than
a shade number.
A single anterior restoration must relate to the tooth beside it. Form, hue, chroma, value, translucency and surface character all play a part in the ceramic direction.
The process begins with a conversation between Natalie and the clinical team. Clear photographs of the neighbouring teeth, the working tooth and shade references create a shared starting point for the build.
Individual builds. A considered trial.
Different porcelain builds can be developed for the same single-tooth restoration. Where appropriate, simultaneous versions allow the clinician to assess alternatives together in the clinical setting, rather than judge a single option in isolation.
Photographs and clinical feedback then guide refinement of the colour, contour and surface detail. Custom shade maps and custom tabs may be used to support communication. The final direction is agreed with the treating clinician.
THE COLOUR-MATCHING WORKFLOW
Shared information.
A considered match.
Build the colour picture
Photograph the neighbouring teeth and shade tabs with consistent orientation. Record the finer details that a shade number alone cannot describe.
Compare & refine
Review alternative builds where appropriate. Clinical trial photographs and clear feedback inform adjustments to the ceramic direction before final agreement.
CERAMIC DETAIL
Look closely.
Consider the differences.
A closer study of restoration form, contour and surface character.
