There is limited scientific information on the relationship between tooth shade, age, gender, and skin color in black Africans. This lack of knowledge may impact the ability of the prosthodontist to select artificial teeth for completely edentulous patients. This study explores the possibility of a relationship between tooth shade, gender, age, and skin color in a black African population.

A total of 212 individuals aged 15 to 79 years participated in this study. One investigator, calibrated for examining tooth shade, performed all examinations. A Vita-Lumin shade guide was used to examine either the maxillary right or left central incisor. One had to be sound for inclusion in the study. Tooth shades were divided into two categories according to value, and skin tones were divided into two categories (light, and dark). Chi-square analysis and Fisher's exact tests were used to analyze the data (P< 05).

No statistically significant difference was found between tooth shade and skin color and the subjects’ perception of their tooth shade. However, a statistically significant difference was found between age and tooth shade (P<.001). There was also a statistically significant difference in tooth shade between men and women.

Within the limitations of this study, tooth shade value and skin color were not related. However, older adults and men are more likely to have darker teeth.

Esan TA, Olusile AO, Akeredolu PA. Factors Influencing Tooth Shade Selection for Completely Edentulous Patients. J Contemp Dent Pract 2006 November;(7)5:080-087.