Cor em resina composta: um guia prático sobre as combinações de cores em restaurações de resinas compostas nano-híbridas

Abstract

This e-book is a practical guide developed as part of the Professional Master's Program in Dentistry at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), serving as a technical product to support dental practitioners in the shade selection process for esthetic restorations using nano-hybrid composite resins. Based on a laboratory study with IPS Empress Direct composite resin (Ivoclar), we mapped the optical behavior of different combinations of dentin and enamel layers through schematic illustrations, considering a range of shades and thicknesses. The guide offers clinical suggestions for layering combinations to enhance predictability in shade outcomes when using these materials. Additionally, this e-book provides a step-by-step approach for fabricating individualized shade guides, recognizing that such guides are specific to each commercial composite resin brand and aim to overcome the limitations of conventional ceramic-based shade tabs. This proposal is intended to facilitate the clinician’s shade selection process, making it more accurate in achieving the desired esthetic result. Given the increasing variety of composite resins on the market—differing in mechanical properties, opacity, translucency, and handling characteristics—predicting the visual effects of layer superposition becomes a challenge. This guide aims to anticipate the outcome of these combinations, offering greater confidence in the execution of esthetic restorations. The content of this e-book is based on a laboratory study and has been validated by experts, serving as a practical aid in clinical practice. Therefore, the responsible use of this guide can help clinicians enhance their understanding of the optical properties of restorative materials, leading to more harmonious and natural results. However, further clinical validation is still recommended.