Moodley, DesiGrobler, Sias RenierOsman, Yusuf IsmailKotze, T.J.v.W.2016-06-032016-06-032015Moodley, D.S. et al. (2015). Comparison of colour components between maxillary central incisors - an in vivo study. South African Dental Journal, 70(1): 6 - 100011-8516http://hdl.handle.net/10566/2285Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of colour in the CIE L a b scale between the maxillary central incisors. Methods: The colour of the maxillary central incisors of 83 patients was measured (in vivo) using a spectrophotometer. Three measurements (6 mm diameter) at the centre of the crown of each of the maxillary central incisors were performed. Results: The total colour difference (?E ab) showed wide variability with the average ?E ab = 1.79. The Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) between maxillary right (11) and left central incisors (21) in both the L and b colour components. In the a scale no significant difference was noted. Conclusion: Small colour differences exist between the maxillary central incisors in the same individual when evaluated with a spectrophotometer. Clinical significance: As there is often a difference between the colours of the two central incisors in the same patient, the colour of both the central incisors should be taken into consideration when shade matching anterior teeth.enColourIncisorsClinical dentistryAestheticsArticle