Tandfärg

Tandfärg refers to the natural color of human teeth and varies between individuals and over time. In dentistry, tandfärg is an important consideration for the esthetic outcome of restorations such as fillings, crowns, and veneers, as well as for evaluating whitening treatments. The perceived color results from the combination of the underlying dentin, the translucent enamel above it, and how enamel thickness and translucency influence light reflection.

Assessment and matching are typically performed with shade guides, such as the Vita Classical or 3D-Muid guides, held against a standardized light source. Modern practice may also employ spectrophotometers or colorimeters to quantify color in a defined color space, such as CIELAB, to improve reproducibility.

Several factors affect tandfärg. Intrinsic factors include dentin color, enamel thickness, aging, fluorosis, tetracycline staining, trauma, and the materials used in previous restorations. Extrinsic factors involve surface stains from coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco, and certain foods or medications. Discoloration can be intrinsic, extrinsic, or a combination of both.

Color modification methods include whitening (bleaching) with peroxide agents, available as in-office or at-home protocols, and cosmetic restorations such as veneers, composite bonding, or crowns to achieve a preferred shade. The choice depends on the nature of discoloration, tooth structure, and patient goals.

Maintenance to preserve tooth color includes good oral hygiene, limiting staining beverages, using protective strategies during consumption, and regular dental visits. Accurate shade matching remains essential for successful esthetic outcomes in restorative dentistry.