The ClearMatch software system uses high-resolution digital camera images and compares shades over the entire tooth with known reference colors. The system uses three color references (black, white, shade tab) to calibrate and determine the shade and includes a selection of industry-standard shade guides.

Based on Artificial Vision technology, the computerless ShadeScan system measures, maps, and communicates shades, translucency, characterization, value, chroma, and hue on the entire surface of a tooth. Users also can record and play voice comments. It also permits visual guidelines for tooth-whitening procedures.

The self-contained SpectroShade Micro spectrophotometer has an internal Linux-ambient computer that analyzes more than 2 million image capture reference points over the entire tooth surface then formulates a chromatic match between the natural tooth and the selected color based on existing standards.

To provide a common comparison under identical conditions, the Crystaleye spectrophotometer combines a light-blocking chairside contact cap and a lab inspection box for checking restoration shade. Included software provides on-screen mirror imaging and split imaging for comparison of the restoration, patient dentition, and shade tab.

The German-manufactured and -distributed Digital Shade Guide DSG 4 Plus device features a compact handpiece that allows shade measurement from one, three, six, or nine points on the tooth as well as from adjacent teeth. The color values can either be displayed as a single shade or as a mixture of two shades at a single point.

Connected to a touchscreen readout by a 6-foot cable, the portable Vita Easyshade spectrophotometer provides the closest shade match to tooth image data through 97 Vita shade recommendations. The system includes 50 laboratory shade verification stickers, lab prescription printer software, and a Vita 3D-Master tooth guide.

The X-Rite ShadeVision device includes a “Virtual Try-in” feature that allows the lab to virtually test the color accuracy of the restoration during fabrication and before the case is returned to the doctor. A best shade compass feature searches all guides for the most accurate match, while a bleaching indicator illustrates whitening progression.

The cordless X-Rite Shade-X device features a color LCD screen with simple icon-based graphics to allow users to use, read, and interpret shade measurements quickly, easily, and immediately. Indicated for measuring shades for crowns, bridges, composites, and whitening results, it supports 10 commonly referenced shade guides.