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.