To achieve proper shade matching, what should be done first?

To achieve proper shade matching, the first step is to polish the teeth. Polishing the teeth removes surface stains, plaque, and any debris that can alter the perception of color. This ensures that the underlying tooth structure is fully visible and provides a more accurate base for matching the shade.

When the teeth are polished, their natural color and translucency are showcased, making it easier to compare with a shade guide. This step is critical because any imperfections or deposits on the tooth surface can skew the results. After polishing, it becomes more straightforward to effectively use a shade guide to select the optimal shade that matches the desired outcome for restorations.

The other options involve steps that could be beneficial in the shade-matching process but are not the first actions to take. Applying a tint or removing existing restorations are modifications made later in the process, while using a shade guide is a vital step but occurs after ensuring the teeth are clean and polished.