Effectiveness of a desensitizing agent before in-office tooth bleaching in restored teeth

A selection of abstracts of clinically relevant papers from other journals. The abstracts on this page have been chosen and edited by John R. Radford.

Abstract

Despite the use of a desensitising gel (5% potassium nitrate, 2% sodium fluoride), all subjects experienced tooth sensitivity following a harsh bleaching regimen.

Main

Bonafé E, Loguercio A D et al. Clin Oral Investig 2014; 18: 839–845

High concentrations of bleaching agents (35% hydrogen peroxide) do not confer superior whitening of teeth when compared with at-home bleaching with 10% carbamide peroxide (Int J Periodont Restor Dent 2012; 32: 303–309). In the UK, 6% hydrogen peroxide (16% carbamide peroxide) is the maximum permitted concentration. The aim of this study was to find out if the use of a desensitizing gel reduced sensitivity following 'in office' bleaching. This study, carried out in Brazil, recruited 30 volunteers. The conditions used to evoke sensitivity were severe with the use of 35% hydrogen peroxide gel over two 45 minute appointments. In addition, each subject had up to five anterior composite restorations with the inevitable associated leakage. Tooth sensitivity was recorded daily for 7 days only, following bleaching. Irrespective of the use of a desensitising gel, all subjects experienced sensitivity, particularly from the lateral incisor teeth. However, the intensity of sensitivity was less in the test group. Satisfactory bleaching was achieved after 2 weeks with no 'color rebound' at 6 months.