Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 21, 2026

Detection and Removal of Tooth-Colored Composite Resin Using the Fluorescence-Aided Identification Technique
Published on: July 27, 2022
Bleaching of vital and nonvital teeth
1University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Abstract:
Although tooth bleaching has been known to the dental profession for over 100 years, new knowledge is continually surfacing. This review discusses the 1990 to 1991 literature on two nonvital bleaching techniques (thermocatalytic and walking) and three classes of vital bleaching techniques (in-office; dentist-prescribed, home-applied; and over-the-counter kits). The choice for nonvital bleaching is the walking bleach technique, with the use of sodium perborate alone having less potential for cervical resorption. The choices for vital bleaching techniques are either the dentist-prescribed, home-applied technique, the in-office technique, or a combination of the two. Bonding should be delayed 2 weeks after bleaching. Microabrasion is a possible second choice for certain discolorations. These chosen bleaching techniques, when used in a professionally appropriate manner, seem as safe as other commonly used dental treatments.
Related Concept Videos
Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Teeth
In the bud stage, the tooth germ (an aggregation of cells) starts to form in the developing jawbone. During the cap stage, the tooth germ differentiates into enamel organ, dental papilla, and dental sac, which will later develop into the tooth's enamel, dentin and...
Tooth Anatomy
The Crown, Neck, and Root
The visible part of the tooth is referred to as the crown. It's covered by enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. The crown is uniquely shaped for each type of tooth, allowing for different functions such as cutting, tearing, or grinding food.

