Fig.1
When a patient came to our clinic with discomfort in the upper left central incisor (tooth 21), it was more than just a dental issue, it was a challenge to solve a resorption on a tooth treated many years earlier.
Clinical and radiographic evaluation revealed external resorption with poor root thickness, a condition that not only compromised the tooth but also threatened the esthetics of the smile.

Fig.2
Clinical and radiographic evaluation revealed external resorption with poor root thickness, a condition that not only compromised the tooth but also threatened the esthetics of the smile.
The treatment plan involved extracting the tooth, immediately placing an implant.

Fig.3
The use of a PMMA temporary crown is a key aspect of this case, as it allows the digital replication of the tooth’s shape and the accurate transfer of every detail into the final zirconia crown.
The digital workflow represents an ideal approach for full‑contour zirconia restorations, particularly in implant cases, where precision and esthetics are paramount.

Fig.4
In addition to the implant and maxillary impression, the laboratory received crucial information regarding color selection.
By using the OptiShade device (Smileline, Switzerland powered by Styleitaliano), we obtained precise and objective measurements of the shade, ensuring full control over the replication process.
OptiShade functions as an individualized digital shade guide, eliminating subjectivity and enhancing accuracy in esthetic dentistry.
Based on the analyzed data, we selected zirconia ML A2 as a base color, providing a reliable foundation for a natural and harmonious final restoration.

Fig.5
After milling and sintering the zirconia crown (3D Pro Zir, Aidite, China), it was carefully evaluated and adjusted on the master model to replicate the intended outline with precision copying the shape of the temporary crown. This step ensures that the anatomical form and esthetic contours are faithfully reproduced before proceeding to the final stage. The restoration was then completed using a micro‑layering technique with nano‑ceramic materials, which enhances translucency, texture, and natural esthetics while maintaining the strength of the zirconia framework.

Fig.6
An essential step in the workflow is duplicating the model using PMMA in both white and pink. This allows the clinician and technician to evaluate the selected shade and shape within a natural frame situation, simulating the interplay between tooth structure and gingival tissues. By recreating this context, the color and shape can be assessed more accurately, ensuring that the final restoration harmonizes seamlessly with the patient’s natural dentition and soft tissue environment.

Video.1
This video demonstrates how the laboratory technician uses the OptiShade device to accurately select the final color.

Fig.7
The crown was microlayered with Nanoceramic to blend with the natural tooth using Biomic Stains: shade A- Blue 1-white C and glazed with Biomic Glaze 3DV (Aidite, China).

Fig.8
The zirconia crown was finalized using a nanoceramic micro‑layering technique, enhancing translucency and natural esthetics. Before the final baking stage, shade verification was performed with the OptiShade system, allowing precise color control and comparison directly in the laboratory. This digital approach eliminates the need for repeated try‑ins at the dental office, streamlining the process while ensuring accuracy. By completing the work entirely under controlled laboratory conditions, the restoration achieves both functional reliability and a seamless integration with the patient’s natural dentition.
The color difference (ΔE) was below the threshold detectable by the human eye.

Fig.9
During the crown try‑in, we observed the successful match in both color and shape of the final restoration.

Fig.10
Final result directly after placement.

Fig.11
The meticulous reproduction of even the smallest details played a decisive role in achieving an outstanding esthetic outcome. By faithfully transferring subtle anatomical features and internal colors, the restoration blended seamlessly with the natural dentition. This precision not only enhanced the visual harmony of the smile but also underscored the value of detail‑oriented craftsmanship in modern restorative dentistry.

Fig.12

In this case, esthetics were respected not only in the crown itself but also in the surrounding soft tissue. This was achieved by carefully managing the crown’s placement and optimizing the emergence profile with the PMMA temporary restoration.

Conclusions

In this case, the esthetic success was achieved not only through the precision of the zirconia crown but also through the accuracy of shade selection with the OptiShade colorimeter. By providing objective and reproducible measurements, OptiShade allowed us to control the color with confidence and ensure seamless integration with the adjacent dentition. The combination of zirconia’s natural translucency and the digital precision of OptiShade resulted in a restoration that respected both esthetics and harmony, delivering a smile that feels authentic and complete.

Bibliography

1. Loi, E. (2013). Biologically oriented preparation technique (BOPT): a new approach for prosthetic restoration of periodontically healthy teeth. Eur J Esthet Dent, 8(1), 10-23.
2. Aldhuwayhi, S. Zirconia in Dental Implantology: A Review of the Literature with Recent Updates. Bioengineering, 2025, 12(5), 543.
3. Paravina RD, Pérez MM, Ghinea R. Color difference thresholds in dentistry. Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry. 2019; 31(4): 382‑388.
4. Manauta J, Devoto W, Camaleonte G. OptiShade: A new digital colorimeter for reproducible shade matching in restorative dentistry. Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry. 2021; 33(6): 789‑797.
5. https://products.styleitaliano.org/smileline/optishade/