Alterations in human enamel surface morphology following the use of an office bleaching agent and consecutive application of 37% phosphoric acid in vivo
Yurdukoru, B.; Akören, A.C.; Unsal, M.K.
Journal of Clinical Dentistry 14(4): 103-107
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0895-8831 PMID: 14666742 Document Number: 560058
The aim of this in vivo study was to evaluate the effects of a visible light-activated in-office bleaching agent, Opalescence Xtra (35% hydrogen peroxide) on the external enamel surface of human teeth by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The labial surfaces of nine upper incisors from nine different patients were divided into four parts, and a bleaching agent was applied to the mesial halves of the teeth. Three weeks following this treatment, the teeth were extracted and divided into four quadrants. Each quadrant was treated with a different procedure and the samples were examined under SEM. The SEM photographs were blindly evaluated by a jury of four experts. Although there were no statistical differences in the rating of surface morphology of bleached and control groups, the 37% phosphoric acid etched and acid etched + bleached enamel samples demonstrated a statistically significant dissimilar surface morphology (p < 0.05). The bleached + etched enamel treatment showed an uneven etched surface compared to the acid etched control.