Innovation in Tooth Whitening

By So Ran Kwon, DDS, MS, PhD, MS

The demand for whiter teeth has spurred the development of many innovations in professional oral health care technologies, as well as in over-the-counter (OTC) products. Discoloration can present in various ways, and, depending on the nature of the discoloration, the treatment approach and outcome can vary significantly. When discussing tooth whitening, it is important to acknowledge the work of many pioneers who enabled the profession to offer tooth whitening as a conservative, alternative treatment to whiten and lighten discolored teeth that otherwise would have to be treated with veneers or crowns—with concomitant removal of sound tooth structure. Historically, professional whitening procedures were performed in the dental office, typically using concentrated hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and by isolating surrounding soft tissue to avoid contact with the whitening agent. Although this proved effective, drawbacks included lengthy chairtime, cost, and the risk of dentinal hypersensitivity. These downsides were addressed by Haywood and Heymann in 1989, with the introduction of nightguard vital bleaching using 10% carbamide peroxide in a custom tray worn at night.¹This technique offered the possibility of whiter vital teeth at a reduced cost, and with fewer side effects. It also marked an evolutionary step in tooth whitening, as the patient took on the responsibility of performing the procedure at home.

* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
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