HT Application Tips

Natural teeth usually display an intensification of chroma near the gum-line or "neck area" of a tooth. This effect is easily simulated by overlaying HT powders on the dentin in this area of the crown. HT-53 is particularly useful for this and compliments virtually every shade.

Because HTs are so translucent, much of the final perceived color comes from the dentins and the ODs underneath the layer of HT. That means that even if the HT powder itself does not exactly match the desired shade, a thin overlay of HT-53 will enhance the look of the final product. In fact, because this chroma enrichment near the gingival is also seen on the standard shade guides, the perception may be a more accurate representation.

HT applications are not limited to the gingival third. HT-52 and HT-53 are warm, soft colors that are extremely well suited to incisal and occlusal areas of older teeth. In the incisal, diluting the HT with incisal translucents can control intensity. HT-51 is a darker color, and can be used in the fossa of occlusals.

HTs are extremely valuable for controlling the color on custom shades. When a tooth is between Vita shades, choose the closest Vita shade towards the light side. Then overlay with HT-52 or HT-53 to match the custom shade perfectly. For example, if the patient is between A2 and A3, start with the A2 and overlay HT-53 to bring the chroma up to the desired shade.