The relationship of tooth color to eye color, facial skin complexion and gingival pigmentation

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background: The selection of a color for the edentulous patient is difficult because the natural teeth are no longer present to act as a guide. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the relationship of tooth color to eye color, facial skin complexion, and gingival pigmentation.
Materials and Methods: A total of 140 subjects (80 females and 60 males) from Al-Taji village were examined in this study. The participants ranged in age from (18 – 35 years). Each subject was seated on a chair in an upright position under day light between (10 a.m. and 1 p.m.). Direct visual examination was used to evaluate eye color and face complexion. The Dummett oral pigmentation index (DOPI), was used to estimate gingival pigmentation of the maxillary arch. The shades of the maxillary central and lateral incisors were obtained by using (Vivadent), basic colors selector
Results: The statistical analysis of the data revealed a non significant relation between tooth color and other parameters (eye color, facial skin complexion and gingival pigmentation). In addition, the light yellow teeth were most commonly seen (61.42%), while brown teeth were the least (0.71%).
Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that depending on eye color, facial skin complexion and gingival pigmentation in order to match tooth color is not appropriate.
Key words: Tooth color, tooth selection. (J Bagh Coll Dentistry 2006; 18(1) 20-24)