Novel Internal Bleaching Techniques After Regenerative Endodontic Procedures (an In Vitro Study)

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Endodontics
• Biocompatible Materials

Background:

• Discoloration is a common complication following regenerative endodontic procedures, often treated with internal bleaching.
• Triple antibiotic paste is frequently used in regenerative endodontics, but it can lead to tooth discoloration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of combining hydrogen peroxide with sweet potato or pineapple extracts for internal bleaching.
• To assess the potential of natural extracts as biocompatible adjuncts to conventional bleaching agents.

Main Methods:

• An in vitro study using 24 discolored incisors treated with triple antibiotic paste.
• Teeth were divided into three groups: control (hydrogen peroxide), hydrogen peroxide with sweet potato extract, and hydrogen peroxide with pineapple extract.
• Spectrophotometric measurements (ΔE00) were taken at baseline and over four weeks to quantify color change.

Main Results:

• Combining hydrogen peroxide with sweet potato extract resulted in statistically significant color variation compared to hydrogen peroxide alone.
• Hydrogen peroxide with pineapple extract showed no significant difference in color change compared to the control group.
• Sweet potato extract enhanced the intracoronal bleaching efficacy of hydrogen peroxide.

Conclusions:

• Sweet potato extract significantly improves the internal bleaching effectiveness of hydrogen peroxide for discolored teeth.
• Three treatment sessions are recommended for optimal results when using sweet potato extract with hydrogen peroxide.
• This combination represents a more conservative and biocompatible alternative for managing post-endodontic discoloration.