Bleaching in dentistry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Bleaching in dentistry - Essay Example One may either opt for a treatment at the dentist’s office or use an OTC treatment tray in-house. Research studies have shown the there is not much difference between the two. Ghalili et al (2014) conducted a study to see the efficacy of novel in-house bleaching procedure using OTC bleaching tray system. They aimed to study the change in color, gingival irritation and tooth sensitivity in patients who opt for undergoing in-house bleaching process. For the study 43 participants within the age group of 18 -65 years and without teeth restorations were selected. Post exclusion, color shade, sensitivity and gingival measurement were done. The participants were given at-home bleaching systems containing 9% HP and treatment was done for 5 days. Assessment was done after treatment on day and day 5. It was seen that after day 1 of treatment significant color change was seen in all but only7 participants complained of discomfort while 2 suffered from buccal mucosal blanching. After Day 5, radical change in color was seen and 82% did not report any pain or discomfort at all. The study thereby concluded that home systems were effective on all in terms of restoring teeth whiteness however people should consult a dentist prior using such systems because some may suffer from discomfort or pain. Some studies have tried to understand if the bleaching mechanism of these agents could be enhanced with the help of energy supplied through heat or radiation. Cardoso et al (2012) conducted an experiment to measure the efficacy of bleaching agents activated by ultrasonic waves. Bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide are extremely efficient in producing free radicals which degrade the long chains pigments that make the tooth appear darker. Research showed that if these agents could be supplied with heat energy they would become much more efficient in breaking down teeth pigmentation to make the teeth appear lighter in color. In