Objectives: The Vita 3D-Master shade guide system is organised more systematically compared to other dental shade systems and leads through the colour matching process. Aim of this study was to evaluate the difference in efficiency of clinical shade matching between this shade system and a conventional system. Methods: Patients with a metal-ceramic restorations were recruited to this study. Pre-graduate clinical students were assigned randomly to one of two groups. One used the conventional type of shade guide (Vita classical, group I) the other the systematically one (Vita 3D-master, group II). Both groups received a lesson from 45 min in the use of their shade guide. The patients were randomly assigned to one of the groups. The students had to select the shade without help and in defined conditions. After completing the restoration, the shade was compared with the chosen shade guide tab. The restoration was rated intra-orally with a visual analogy scale from 1 to 10 from the patient and a dentist. Results: 59 crowns and bridges in 42 patients were manufactured. 30 in group I, 29 in group II. In group II all restorations were accepted by patient and dentist without any modification of shade. In group I nearly 17% of the restorations needed changes (2 false shades, 3 needs of individualisation). The rating on the visual analogy scale was high in both groups but significant better in group II for dentists. When the agreement between the restoration shade and the selected shade guide tab was not excellent, a significant lower rating from the patient and the dentist was found. Conclusion: For the inexperienced clinician it is easier to select shade with the systematically organised shade guide.

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