Introduction: Several variables can impact the choice of shade. Having a thorough understanding of these factors and following the proper selection technique is crucial for achieving favorable esthetic results. Aim of the study: To review the characteristics of esthetic perception of teeth in different lighting conditions, by individuals with different levels of experience in dentistry. Material and methods: Thirty volunteers, dentistry students, and general dentists were recruited. The participants were asked to determine the color of 4 mock-ups containing artificial teeth, under standardized conditions. Therefore, the samples were introduced in a custom-made box and illuminated by two different light conditions (4300 K and 5500 K), and three different colors (black, gray, and pink) were selected as background colors. Results: Our results showed a statistically significant difference between the two examined light conditions, the number of correct color determinations was significantly higher under the light with a color temperature of 5500K (p<0.00001). It can be seen that the gray background color proved to be statistically significantly more beneficial than the black and pink background colors. Conclusions: Among dentistry students and practitioners, environmental changes that affect shade determination have been demonstrated. Further research is still necessary regarding the perception of the esthetic expectations of dental treatments for color determination.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/asmj-2023-0011