Vital tooth bleaching: review and current status

Vital tooth bleaching refers to the clinical application of a chemical solution to a tooth surface in order to achieve a lightening effect. This article reviews the available literature to address the following questions: What are the methods of vital bleaching? How does vital bleaching work and is it effective? What effects are there on the teeth, dental restorative materials, soft tissues and systemic health? The techniques used in the application of dentist-applied and patient-applied bleaching systems are described. Generally, vital tooth bleaching has been found to be effective, however, relapse does occur. The literature suggests that bleaching agents may have transient effects on the tooth itself, and may affect some dental materials. Soft tissues exposed to hydrogen peroxide for prolonged periods show changes consistent with inflammation or hyperplasia. Hydrogen peroxide may also potentiate the carcinogenic effect of known carcinogens. However, more clinically relevant studies are needed. Until long-term safety data becomes available, the dental practitioner should approach the use of in-home bleaches with caution. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently classified these products as "new drug." However, dentist-applied bleaching gel systems are a viable alternative and deserve further consideration. They are simple to use, require little armamentarium, and limit the exposure of the bleaching agent to the teeth only. Vital tooth bleaching refers to the clinical application of a chemical solution to a tooth surface in order to achieve a lightening effect. There was a resurgence of interest in vital bleaching with the recent introduction of the in-home bleaching technique.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)