Limitations and challenges of spectrophotometric colos analysis of fixed prosthetic restorations

Spectrophotometric color analysis has become an indispensable tool in modern dentistry, particularly within the field of fixed prosthodontics, where the demand for highly esthetic restorations continues to grow. With the advancement of digital technologies, spectrophotometers enable objective and quantitative measurement of color differences (ΔE), enhancing the material selection process, optimizing fabrication protocols, and reducing subjective human bias in shade matching. Despite these technological innovations, spectrophotometry in both dental research and clinical practice faces significantmethodological limitations and challenges that can compromise the accuracy and reliability of the obtained data.The precision and reproducibility of spectrophotometric measurements are influenced by multiple factors, including lighting conditions, incidence angle, surface texture, gloss level, sample condition, operator handling, and environmental parameters. In laboratory settings, these variables are minimized through standardized lighting, controlled temperature, and consistent sample positioning, allowing for more accurate and reliable results. Conversely, clinical measurements are performed in dynamic environments, often affected by ambient light, saliva presence, patient movement, and operator variability —all of which may compromise the consistencyof spectrophotometric readings.One of the key concerns addressed in this review is the transferability of laboratory results into clinical scenarios, highlighting the gap between controlled experimental conditions and real-world clinical practice. Such variations can directly impact ΔE values and, consequently, influence esthetic outcomes and treatment decisions in prosthodontic practice.The purpose of this literature review is to provide a comprehensive analysis of current scientific evidence regarding the limitations and challenges of spectrophotometric color analysis in fixed prosthodontics. The paper compares laboratory and clinical measurement conditions, examines methodological approaches adopted in recent studies, discusses the constraints of available digital devices, and offers practical recommendations for improving measurement accuracy in daily dental practice. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for continued research aimed at developing standardized protocols and enhancing the clinical applicability of spectrophotometric color analysis in esthetic dentistry.
Keywords:spectrophotometry, color, fixed prosthodontics,limitations, clinical application