eLAB Shade Matching Workshops
"From the Science Lab to the Bench"
Tooth color appearance goes beyond simple color measurement; it involves a complex interplay between the inherent properties of human teeth, including their color, morphology, surface texture, and translucency, as well as the subjective nature of color perception, which varies between observers. The intrinsic optical properties of teeth, particularly their scattering and absorption coefficients, are key elements that we strive to replicate in dental restorations. Dental materials like ceramics also share these optical building blocks. In our hands-on courses, you will learn how these factors are interconnected and how to manipulate these optical properties to achieve the best possible results. By grounding your practice in a solid scientific foundation, you will not only understand the complexities of tooth color but also learn how to use these insights to your advantage while recognising their limitations
eLAB - Perfecting Shade Matching in Dentistry
We’ve all faced those frustrating moments when our shade matching falls short, leading to costly and time-consuming re-dos and tensions between the dental lab and office. The eLAB system, introduced in 2016, has rapidly gained popularity among restorative teams worldwide for its ability to elevate shade matching to new heights. More than just a tool, eLAB has evolved into a global community, connecting passionate professionals who are transforming their skills and boosting their confidence. Are you ready to master the art of the single central shade match?
Key Learning Objectives:
- Explore the pros and cons of traditional shade communication.
- Understand the phenomenon of metamerism and its impact on color perception.
- Dive into the science of light propagation through dental hard tissues.
- Learn how to achieve objective shade quantification and communication without relying on traditional shade guides.
- Master the eLAB digital workflow through practical, hands-on application.
- Review a variety of clinical examples that demonstrate the system’s effectiveness.
What to Bring:
- Your personal ceramic work instruments, including diamond burs.
- A DSLR or MILC camera system suitable for dental photography, complete with a macro lens and ring or lateral flash. A matching polar_eyes® filter is necessary and can be provided during the course.
- A Mac or PC notebook.
- An empty, formatted memory card for your camera.
This course is packed with in-depth knowledge, a blend of classic and innovative techniques, and plenty of fun and excitement. Prepare to deepen your understanding of dental color science and take your shade matching skills to the next level.
The Art of Dental Photography and Beyond
This immersive dental photography workshop discusses some of the most valuable and innovative techniques for capturing teeth, smiles, and portraits. Designed to elevate your skills from a basic beginner level to an advanced level, this workshop covers the essentials of using digital cameras and mastering lighting techniques, with plenty of hands-on practice. Whether you're looking to improve your skills, document your daily clinical work, or enhance your presentations and publications, this course offers a broad range of photographic techniques for effective and stunning dental photography, often using simple yet powerful tricks.
Running successfully for over 10 years, this course has benefited both individuals and professional organizations, including the ITI speaker development program and various continuous education programs offered by dental boards. You'll also have the opportunity to explore professional studio setups for creating breathtaking portrait photography.
Key Learning Objectives:
- Fundamental principles of digital photography
- Practical solutions for common challenges in dental photography
- Lighting techniques tailored for intraoral photography
- Effective workflow management and post-production methods
- Portrait photography: From simple setups to professional results
- Maximizing your current gear or selecting the right equipment for your needs
- Expert tips and tricks for achieving exceptional results
What to Bring:
This course is ideal for dentists and dental technicians, from beginners to those with some experience in dental photography. Participants will be paired up to practice techniques on each other. Please bring the following:
- Digital camera (any age or resolution) with the user manual
- USB cable for your camera
- 100, or 105 mm macro lens
- Ring flash (e.g., Sigma EM 140 DG; Nikon SB 29s; Canon MR-14 EX) or lateral flash system (e.g., Nikon R1C1 (SB-R 200) or Canon MT-24 EX)
- Notebook computer (Windows or Mac) with Adobe Lightroom 5.0 (free trial available)
This course is rich in both foundational knowledge and cutting-edge techniques, offering a perfect balance of education and enjoyment. Get ready to enhance your understanding of dental color science and take your photography skills to new heights.