FAQ
How do I send shade information to a lab?
A straight answer first, then the context behind it, from the technicians who do the work.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Send shade information using a completed shade tab (Vita Classical or 3D-Master), a calibrated intraoral photo under natural or corrected daylight lighting, and a written note on any characterization requests. For implant or full-arch cases, include gingival shade alongside tooth shade. Digital shade devices like Vita Easyshade can export a file your lab attaches directly to the digital case file.
THE CONTEXT
What sits behind it
The single biggest source of anterior remake requests is incomplete shade communication, not lab error. A shade tab alone gives the technician one data point. Pair it with a RAW or high-resolution JPEG taken under daylight-corrected flash, with a gray card in frame if available. Note the ambient lighting conditions in the operatory at time of capture. That context changes how a ceramist interprets value and chroma, especially on high-translucency zirconia or pressed lithium disilicate.
For full-arch implant cases, gingival shade matters as much as tooth shade. If the prosthetic includes pink ceramic or acrylic gingival tissue, document the patient's existing tissue color with a separate photo. Labs fabricating monolithic or layered full-arch prosthetics need that reference to match emergence and frame aesthetics. Sending it at case intake, not after the frame is already milled, keeps the case on schedule.
If your practice uses a digital shade device, most units export a Vita 3D-Master or Classical code that your lab's case management portal can attach to the digital prescription. Dani Dental accepts shade data via digital case submission or the printed Rx form in the Doctor Starter Kit. Questions about a specific case go directly to the technician assigned, reachable by the direct line listed on your case confirmation.
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This question is one piece of a larger workflow. The pillar page covers materials, turnaround, and how we build the case to your specification.
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