shade tab
A physical ceramic or resin reference sample used to match and communicate tooth colour between the dental clinic and the laboratory.
Full Definition
Shade tabs are the individual sample pieces within a dental shade guide (such as the VITA Classical or VITA Linearguide 3D-Master system) used to determine and record the colour of a patient's natural teeth for prosthetic matching. In editorial contexts, shade designations appear as alphanumeric codes (e.g., A2, B1, 2M2) and must be transcribed accurately without alteration. Editors should verify that shade codes correspond to the correct shade system specified on the prescription, as different systems use different nomenclature.
Usage
Usage note: Shade codes are case-sensitive (e.g., 'A2' not 'a2'). Always confirm which shade system is referenced before editing shade designations.
In Context
- "The prescription noted shade tab A2 for the body and BL2 for the incisal third." — Laboratory work order
- "When transcribing shade codes, editors must preserve the alphanumeric case exactly as written on the shade tab." — Style guide for dental documentation