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When selecting a shade for a composite restoration, what should be done regarding the tooth?

  1. Keep the tooth dry

  2. Apply whitening gel

  3. Keep the tooth moist

  4. Expose the tooth to light

The correct answer is: Keep the tooth moist

When selecting a shade for a composite restoration, keeping the tooth moist is crucial for an accurate match. The natural tooth structure, particularly the enamel and dentin, can change in appearance when dehydrated. A dry tooth may present a different shade than it would under normal conditions, leading to an inaccurate shade selection for the restoration. By maintaining moisture, the dental professional ensures that the shade assessment reflects the tooth's true color, allowing for a more seamless and aesthetic integration of the composite material with the natural tooth. The practice of keeping the tooth moist acknowledges the natural hydration levels present in the tooth before restorative work, enhancing the likelihood of achieving a restoration that blends well with the surrounding dentition. Therefore, ensuring moisture during the shade selection process helps in achieving the best aesthetic results.