Shades Unveiled - From Tooth Color to Natural Aesthetics

Author : Dr. Angela Justin, Dr. Pushkar Gupta,  Dr. Sneha. S. Mantri, Dr. Aditi. M. Paranjpe

The art of creating a natural and confident smile has always fascinated me, and at its core lies the science of shade selection. As a postgraduate student in Prosthodontics, I was intrigued by the subtle variations in color, light, and texture that make each smile unique. This curiosity, coupled with my interest in aesthetics, inspired me to explore shade selection in depth, which ultimately led to the creation of this book.
During my academic journey, I realized that while advancements in material science and digital dentistry continue to transform clinical practice, shade selection remains one of the most challenging aspects for students and clinicians alike. The absence of a clear, beginner-friendly resource often makes the subject overwhelming for many learners. With this book, I have attempted to bridge that gap by presenting the fundamental principles of color science alongside practical approaches, simplified explanations, and insights into contemporary techniques.
This book is primarily written for early learners and postgraduate students, but it also serves as a valuable reference for dental professionals seeking excellence in aesthetics. Each chapter has been thoughtfully structured to progress from foundational principles of color and shade science to advanced methods, including digital shade matching and clinical applications across prosthodontics, restorative dentistry, and maxillofacial prosthetics.
It is my sincere hope that this work inspires curiosity, fosters critical thinking, and builds confidence in achieving aesthetic excellence. If this book succeeds in making shade selection less daunting and more engaging, then its purpose will truly be fulfilled.