Color Matching Ability Among Single-Shade Resin Composites: Instrumental and Visual Evaluation

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the color-matching ability of 4 single-shade resin composites (RCs), using 2 different evaluation methods. Methods: One hundred and twelve specimens (8 × 2 mm) were fabricated in disc shape using 4 single-shade RCs (Omnichroma (OM), Essentia Universal (EU), Zenchroma (ZC), and Charisma Diamond One (CDO)) (n = 28). The specimens were randomly divided into 4 subgroups (na = 7), and cylindrical cavities (4 × 1 mm) were prepared in the center of each specimen. The cavities were then restored with either the same material or one of the other single-shade RCs. Color matching was measured instrumentally using a spectrophotometer and visually using a 0-4 scoring scale. Data were recorded and statistically analyzed (P < .05). Results: When instrumental analysis results were evaluated, ΔE00 values above the clinically acceptable threshold were observed in all groups except the control groups. The highest ΔE00 value was seen in the OM-EU group (P < .05); OM showed the worst color matching. The best color matching was observed in CDO. When visual analysis results were examined, the highest visual scores were seen in the EU-OM and ZC-OM groups (P < .05), whereas CDO presented the lowest visual scores. Conclusion: Color-matching ability of single-shade RCs varies depending on the material composition. Single-shade RCs with higher translucency after polymerization and enhanced optical design may provide better color matching. Some color differences detected instrumentally may not always be visually perceptible under clinical conditions.