Evaluation of Tooth Color Changes at Different Concentrations of Zirconia Toothpaste: A Pilot In Vitro Study

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Growing demand for natural, minimally invasive teeth whitening.
• Zirconium's abrasive properties suggest potential for tooth whitening.
• Limited research on zirconium's efficacy and safety in whitening applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate zirconium powder concentrations for tooth whitening.
• To assess the impact of zirconium on enamel surface integrity.
• To compare efficacy and safety across different zirconia concentrations.

Main Methods:

• Forty extracted mandibular teeth were used, divided into four groups.
• Teeth were brushed with zirconia toothpaste at varying concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 2%, 5%).
• Color parameters (CIE Lab*, ΔE, WID) and surface roughness were measured before and after brushing.

Main Results:

• All zirconia concentrations resulted in detectable tooth color change (ΔE > 1.2).
• Optimal whitening gains were observed at 2% for posterior teeth and 1-5% for anterior teeth.
• Surface roughness decreased at 0.5% zirconia but increased significantly at 5%.

Conclusions:

• Zirconia toothpaste at 1-2% concentration provides the best balance of whitening efficacy and enamel preservation.
• Concentrations of 5% zirconia may lead to increased surface roughness.
• Lower concentrations (0.5%) show reduced whitening effects.