The Impact of a Customized Tray on In-Office Bleaching Tooth Sensitivity: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Dental Aesthetics
• Dental Materials

Background:

• Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of dental bleaching procedures.
• Previous research suggested that using a tray over bleaching agents might reduce pulpal penetration and subsequent sensitivity.
• This study investigates the impact of a sealed technique on patient-reported tooth sensitivity during and after in-office bleaching.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of a sealed technique, using a customized tray over the bleaching agent, on the presence and level of tooth sensitivity.
• To compare sensitivity levels during and after in-office bleaching with and without a sealed tray.
• To assess the impact of the sealed technique on shade alteration.

Main Methods:

• Forty-six patients received two 45-minute sessions of 35% hydrogen peroxide bleaching, seven days apart.
• Half the patients used a customized tray sealed over the bleaching agent throughout the procedure.
• Sensitivity was assessed using verbal and visual analogue scales; shade alteration was measured with a bleach guide scale.

Main Results:

• The sealed technique significantly increased the relative risk of tooth sensitivity 24 hours after each bleaching session.
• A higher level of tooth sensitivity was observed at 24 hours post-first session in the sealed group.
• No significant differences in shade alteration were found between the sealed and non-sealed techniques.

Conclusions:

• Employing a tray over the bleaching agent during in-office procedures can elevate tooth sensitivity and associated risks within the initial 24 hours.
• The sealed technique does not appear to influence the degree of tooth whitening achieved.
• Patients undergoing in-office bleaching should be informed about the potential for increased sensitivity when using a tray-sealed method.