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At-home bleaching: pulpal effects and tooth sensitivity issues, part II
1Department of Operative Dentistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA. ed_swift@dentistry.unc.edu
Summary
Transient tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of at-home bleaching, but it is not well understood. This review covers pulpal concerns and prevention strategies for tooth sensitivity during at-home whitening treatments.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Dental Materials
Background:
- At-home bleaching is a popular cosmetic dental procedure.
- Transient tooth sensitivity is the most frequent adverse effect.
- The underlying mechanisms of this sensitivity remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically appraise existing literature on tooth sensitivity from at-home bleaching.
- To review pulpal concerns and prevention methods for at-home whitening treatments.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific articles.
- Critical appraisal of studies on tooth sensitivity and bleaching.
- Synthesis of findings on incidence, long-term effects, pulpal concerns, and prevention.
Main Results:
- Tooth sensitivity is a common, though not fully understood, side effect of at-home bleaching.
- The review consolidates information on pulpal issues and effective prevention strategies.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of tooth sensitivity.
- Implementing preventive measures can mitigate discomfort during at-home bleaching.
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