Translucency (Tooth)

Translucency (Tooth) refers to the way light passes through a tooth’s enamel and dentine, producing depth, sheen and subtle colour variations that affect how a tooth looks. The degree of translucency is influenced by enamel thickness, mineral composition, age and intrinsic staining, and it differs between people and between different teeth.

In clinical practice translucency is important for shade matching and choosing restorative materials because restorations need to mimic the natural balance of opacity and translucency to appear lifelike. Dentists assess translucency when planning veneers, crowns or composite restorations so they can select appropriate materials and layering techniques that blend with the surrounding teeth.