Clinical Evaluation of Shade Matching and Patient Satisfaction of Gradient Zirconia vs Lithium Disilicate Crowns in the Esthetic Zone: Randomized Clinical Trial.

AIM

This study compared the shade matching, color difference, and patient satisfaction of lithium disilicate (IPS e.max CAD) and the new gradient technology zirconia (5Y-TZP\3Y-TZP) (IPS e.max ZirCAD Prime) crowns in the esthetic zone.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 24 ceramic crowns were divided into two groups ( = 12), and patients were allocated randomly into group E (IPS e.max CAD) and group Z (IPS e.max ZirCAD Prime). After final cementation, shade matching to the reference tooth was evaluated by three experienced evaluators using Modified United States Public Health Service criteria. The color difference Δ was measured using intraoral spectrophotometer and evaluated for each group. Patient satisfaction of the two groups was assessed using the visual analog scale. The follow-up was at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference between group E and group Z (-value = 1, effect size = 1.316) concerning the shade matching. There was no change by time in scores in each group. Color difference: IPS e.max CAD showed statistically significantly higher Δ than IPS e.max ZirCAD Prime. Regarding each material, there was no statistically significant change in Δ at different periods. There was no statistically significant difference concerning patient satisfaction between group E and group Z (-value = 0.432, effect size = 0.298). There was no change by time in scores in each group.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limitations of this study, both IPS e.max CAD and IPS e.max ZirCAD Prime crowns provide satisfactory esthetic outcomes. However, ZirCAD Prime exhibited a superior ability to replicate natural tooth shades.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Shade matching is a critical skill for dental clinicians, playing an important role in achieving optimal esthetic outcomes and patient satisfaction. Accurate color selection ensures that restorations seamlessly blend with natural teeth, maintaining a harmonious smile. Precise shade matching contributes significantly to patient satisfaction by meeting their esthetic expectations and boosting their confidence. How to cite this article: Eid NK, Sherif RM, Rabie KA. Clinical Evaluation of Shade Matching and Patient Satisfaction of Gradient Zirconia vs Lithium Disilicate Crowns in the Esthetic Zone: Randomized Clinical Trial. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(5):481-487.