Objectives: To objectively assess the levels of translucency in maxillary anterior teeth, its distribution, and correlation to age, gender, and ethnicity. Methods: Sixty-eight subjects with maxillary anterior teeth (113 central incisors, 122 lateral incisors, and 131 canines), free of decay and restorations, were assigned to the study using specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Subjects presented for two appointments. Extrinsic stains were removed with a fine pumice prophylaxis at the first appointment. Subjects were instructed to refrain from all stain-producing foods and beverages until the next appointment. At the second appointment, forty-eight hours later, a digital image was taken of each tooth using the ShadeScan SystemTM (Cynovad). All images were processed using the ShadeScan SystemTM software to create a translucency map with five levels of translucency. These maps were analyzed using a custom digital imaging analysis software. Statistical analysis was performed using an analysis of variance (ANOVA) at P<0.05 level of significance. Results: For all central incisors, lateral incisors and canines, the highest level of translucency was observed along the incisal edges. Translucency levels at the incisal edges were lower in central incisors as compared to lateral incisors and canines. A statistically significant difference in translucency levels was detected as correlated to age (bimodal distribution with maximum translucency in 30 to 36 age group, less in age groups 20-29 and 37-and-older), gender (females > males), and ethnicity (Hispanic>Asian-American>African-American and Caucasian). Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, translucency levels of maxillary anterior teeth are highest at the incisal edge, decrease in an apical direction, and are significantly different in correlation to age, gender, and ethnicity.

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