In vivo evaluation of the effects of 10% carbamide peroxide and 3.5% hydrogen peroxide on the enamel surface.

OBJECTIVES Bleaching of vital teeth performed at home by the patient under the dentist's supervision, using low-concentration peroxides and custom-fitted trays specifically designed for this purpose, is one of several options for this type of dental treatment, whether alone or in combination with another in-office bleaching technique. The objective of this study is to analyse the effect on the enamel surface of two bleaching products recommended for this technique. MATERIALS & METHODS Two bleaching products were used: VivaStyle (Vivadent), a 10% carbamide peroxide, and FKD (Kin), a 3.5% hydrogen peroxide. They were applied in trays to the anterior teeth of 20 patients (10 in each group). The application times were 2 and 3 hours a day respectively for 28-33 days. Replicas of the tooth surfaces before and after treatment were obtained. These were observed with a scanning electron microscope. RESULTS The images obtained showed that the tooth surfaces remained entire and the enamel surface structures remained normal. CONCLUSIONS The results show that neither of the products affects the enamel surface: no post-operatory changes were observed.