[Teeth whitening with 6% hydrogen peroxide vs. 35% hydrogen peroxide, a comparative controlled study]

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Dental Materials

Background:

• Recent European regulations favor 6% hydrogen peroxide with a dedicated device for teeth whitening.
• This study compares a 6% hydrogen peroxide device-based treatment with an in-office 35% hydrogen peroxide treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and safety of 6% hydrogen peroxide (HP) with a dedicated device versus 35% HP in-office teeth whitening.
• To evaluate the long-term stability of tooth color changes and patient satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A controlled, randomized, parallel, blinded six-month prospective study.
• 75 participants with A3 or higher tooth shade were divided into 6% HP, 35% HP, and placebo groups.
• Color measurements, periodontal indices, oral mucosa changes, and side effects were recorded pre-treatment, immediately post-treatment, and at three and six months.

Main Results:

• Both 6% and 35% HP groups showed statistically significant tooth color improvement compared to baseline, with results stable at six months.
• Immediately post-treatment, the 35% HP group showed greater color change (3.68 shades) than the 6% HP group (2.37 shades).
• At three and six months, no statistically significant difference in color change was observed between the 6% and 35% HP groups (p > 0.5000). Mild side effects were reported, and patient satisfaction was high.

Conclusions:

• Tooth color can be substantially improved with 6% hydrogen peroxide using a dedicated device.
• This method is effective for post-in-office whitening maintenance, severe staining, or as an over-the-counter (OTC) option for budget-conscious patients.
• The 6% HP device offers a stable and satisfactory alternative for teeth whitening, especially for long-term results.