Tips on shade taking:

1. Shade-taking should be carried out prior to preparation as the ensuing dehydration makes tooth shades unnaturally white.
2. Tooth shades should be determined in natural light if possible, or using a standard daylight lamp and not an operating lamp.
3. Make your selection quickly and always go with your initial decision, as eyes tire after 5 to 7 seconds.
4. There should be no bright colors in the shade-taking environment. That means the patient should not wear lipstick, tinted glasses or brightly colored clothing (this can be covered with a gray or cream colored cloth).