RESUMO
The objective of this study was to analyze the color distribution of the maxillary primary central incisors and the relationship between the color of each tooth region by dividing tooth into incisal, middle and cervical region using a spectrophotometer. The subjects were 105 sound maxillary primary central incisors from 3 to 6 years old children. Color measurements were performed by one dentist using same protocol. CIE L* , a*, b*, C*, h* data and the best matched shades with coverage error were obtained for each region and whole labial surface. There was a significant difference in CIE L* , a*, b* according to regions and the difference in color between each region was more than the clinical acceptance. By correlating the relationship between the color of each region with L*, a*, b* values, it is possible to extrapolate the color of other region with one color or to be used as data for making restorative materials and prostheses that are more aesthetically pleasing for primary teeth.