Stump Shade

In recent years, labs have added a term called the "Stump Shade" to the Rx form. Many doctors are confused by this term as it was introduced only as a result of new all ceramic materials and was not previously required for communication with the lab. The term "Stump" refers to the prepared tooth (also known as abutment tooth) color. The stump is often a different color from the original unprepared enamel. For traditional PFM restorations, the stump is not a necessary shade as the metal coping will always mask the underlying color. This is true for zirconia based all ceramics as well - since the zirconia material is opacious. However, pressed or CAD high translucency ceramics - specifically IPS e.Max, IPS Empress or similar materials were created to offer a material that can more closely mimic the natural tooth shade and translucency. While it is true that these materials can achieve shades not possible with PFMs or Zirconia restorations, it is critical that the doctor take into account the following items: (1) Stump shade (2) Ingot or CAD block shade lab is using (3) Shade of any layering ceramic/porcelain (4) Cementation Shade. Items 1 and 4 are in the doctors hands - the doctor needs to take a stump shade and consider what color cement (i.e. high opacity cement) he or she will use when cementing. Items 2 and 3 are in the labs hands - based on what shade the doctor gives on the Rx. As always, achieving the correct shade is a joint effort between doctor and lab technician.