PREVALENCE OF COLOR VISION DEFICIENCY AMONG DENTAL STUDENTS IN ALEXANDRIA, EGYPT

Abstract

Introduction: The key objective of esthetics in dentistry is to create natural blending, with well-proportioned teeth considering the parameters of surface form, translucency and color. Tooth color is determined either instrumentally or visually. Instrumental color determination of teeth is not error proof. Visual color determination, though subjective, is the most commonly applied method. Consequently, color vision deficiency would fundamentally influence this method. Objectives: The aim of this study was to detect the prevalence of color vision deficiency among dental students in Alexandria, Egypt. Methodology: Four hundred dental students were randomly selected [200 males and 200 females] to participate in this study. An informed consent was obtained and brief instructions were given. To facilitate the scoring and analysis of the results, a key answer sheet was used. Results: The results showed that 4.5% of the males had color vision deficiency; meanwhile none of the females had color vision deficiency. Among the discovered color vision deficient males, 66% were not aware of their condition