Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry, cilt.37, sa.4, ss.1127-1134, 2025 (SCI-Expanded)
Objective: This study aimed to assess the relative translucency parameter (RTP) of human enamel and dentin and set target RTP values for dental material development. Additionally, it seeks to validate the spectral RTP concept as supplementary quantitative information. Materials and Methods: Slides of extracted human teeth, 1 and 2 mm thick enamel or dentin slides, were evaluated. RTP was calculated using CIEDE2000 (RTP00) and CIELAB (RTPab) color difference formulas. Spectral RTP (SPECTRAL RTP) curves were also generated from differences between spectral reflectance values obtained against white and black backgrounds. Statistical analyses included multifactorial ANOVAs for each RTP and spectral RTP, and Pearson correlations between RTP and spectral RTP. Results: Significant correlations were observed between the RTP and spectral RTP values (p < 0.001) at all studied wavelengths. RTP00 and RTPab values were significantly different (p < 0.001). Enamel showed more translucency than dentin (p < 0.001), and 1 mm slices were more translucent than 2 mm slices (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Spectral RTP values were influenced by the type of tissue (enamel, dentin), thickness (1 mm, 2 mm), and color difference formula (CIELAB2000, CIELAB). RTP curve values were influenced by tissue type, thickness, and wavelength. Spectral RTP and RTP curve values were correlated.