Efficacy, longevity, side effects, and patient perceptions of nightguard vital bleaching

Since its introduction into dentistry in 1989, nightguard vital bleaching has been proven to be a simple and safe procedure to whiten discolored teeth. Efficacy of the technique is 95% for nontetracycline-stained teeth, and with extended treatment time, tetracycline-stained teeth can be expected to lighten in 90% of cases. Satisfactory retention of the shade change can be expected in 63% of patients 3 years posttreatment and at least 35% at 7 years. Side effects are usually mild and transient, disappearing within days of treatment completion. Patients report that they are glad they went through the procedure, and 97% recommend the procedure to a friend.