Evaluation of the bleached human enamel by Scanning Electron Microscopy

Area of Science:

• Dental materials science
• Biomaterials research
• Oral health diagnostics

Background:

• Tooth bleaching is a popular cosmetic procedure.
• The effects of bleaching peroxides on dental hard tissues are of significant research interest.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for safe clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To qualitatively analyze human enamel morphology after in-office bleaching.
• To evaluate the effects of carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide on enamel structure.
• To utilize Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for detailed surface examination.

Main Methods:

• Human third molars were divided into four groups: control, 35% carbamide peroxide (2h and 8h total exposure), and light-activated 35% hydrogen peroxide (40min total exposure).
• Specimens were prepared using gold sputter coating under vacuum.
• Enamel surfaces were examined using SEM at 500x and 2000x magnification.

Main Results:

• Both 35% carbamide peroxide and 35% hydrogen peroxide caused morphological alterations on the enamel surface.
• Surface porosities indicative of an erosive process were observed.
• Depressions, crater formation, and exposed enamel rods were detected.

Conclusions:

• In-office bleaching agents can lead to varying degrees of enamel damage.
• Adverse effects on enamel morphology were randomly distributed across the surface.
• Caution is advised when using in-office bleaching materials due to potential enamel damage.