Enlightening Smiles: Review explores the current status and future prospects of tooth whitening

Casein phosphopeptide–amorphous calcium phosphate, nanohydroxyapatite hydrogen peroxide, and nanoarchitecture-integrated hydrogen gels are currently under development as materials to accomplish effective tooth whitening while protecting soft tissues and teeth, the study stated. The findings were published online in Odontology on April 3, 2024.

As an effective, safe, economical, and convenient technique, tooth whitening is one of the most popular treatments for improving tooth discoloration. The review, published in Odontology, summarizes the theoretical and recent research developments in the classification and mechanisms of tooth discoloration, as well as the principles, effects, agents, and side effects of tooth whitening techniques.

The review by Zhifeng Song, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China, and colleagues aims to provide a basis for the clinical treatment of tooth whitening techniques and to suggest possible new ideas for further research.

The accepted whitening mechanism is the redox reaction of oxides in the whitening reagent, and the whitening effect is remarkable. However, side effects such as irritation of gum and other oral soft tissues and tooth sensitivity can still occur.

According to the review, when performing tooth whitening, dentists are advised to use low-acidity and low-concentration whitening products and space out whitening cycles to achieve the desired esthetic results while minimizing the loss of tooth microhardness and induction of enamel surface roughness. Side effects of tooth whitening include gingival irritation, tooth sensitivity, and gingival recession. Current efforts to advance the tooth discoloration treatment involve combining low-concentration bleaching with remineralization agents.

"It is recommended that more monitoring be carried out in the clinic to monitor these side effects, and care should be taken to protect the soft tissues in the mouth during office whitening procedures," the researchers wrote. "Furthermore, there is a need to develop natural whitening products or new additives to reduce side effects occurrence."

Reference:

Li, K., Chen, S., Wang, J. et al. Tooth whitening: current status and prospects. Odontology (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10266-024-00914-4