To bleach or not to bleach?

Article Abstract:

Home bleaching of the teeth is becoming increasingly common, but the agents used have not been accepted by the American Dental Association and are under review by the Food and Drug Administration. The practice has become popular because it is easy, quite painless, inexpensive, and immediately effective. Dentists as well as patients support home bleaching, in part because it promotes a positive attitude toward dentistry. Auxiliary dental personnel can explain the bleaching procedures to patients. Home bleaching is a ''nearly certain practice builder.'' Home bleaching is most successful against brown, orange, or yellow stains, and ineffective against blue-gray stains. Research on the safety of carbamide peroxide, the most commonly used bleaching agent, has yielded positive results. It does not appear to harm dental hard or soft tissues or fillings when used properly. The procedure is carried out incorrectly if trays containing bleaching gel are overused, teeth undergo acid etching before bleaching, or gels that are too acid are used. Carbamide peroxide bleaching has been associated with gum irritation and tooth sensitivity, but these consequences are unlikely if the bleach is used appropriately. Basic research is needed to conclusively demonstrate the safety of carbamide peroxide bleaching. Bleaching in the dentist's office is unpleasant, expensive, and time-consuming; a survey shows that dentists would rather avoid this. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

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Glass ionomer-resin: a maturing concept

Article Abstract:

Traditional glass ionomer has been hybridized with restorative resins. This new hybrid is well regarded for multiple uses. It combines the good and bad qualities of resin and glass ionomer. Superior for many uses to either material alone, the commercial materials are stronger than glass, weaker than resin, less soluble than glass, more soluble than resin and its fluoride release is equal or better than glass ionomer. Easier for use than glass, more difficult than resin, it possesses better esthetic properties than glass but is less esthetic than resin. Its molecular bond to tooth structure is equal to or better than glass ionomer.

Innovations, Dental resins, Dental acrylic resins

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Bleaching teeth: practitioner trends

Article Abstract:

Tooth bleaching has become a relatively simple and popular procedure. A survey of 8,143 dentists found that 91% had provided tooth bleaching to a patient. Carbamide peroxide is the method of choice and many dentists give patients bleaching supplies that can be used at home. Although the bleach loses its effectiveness after two hours, many patients prefer to use it while they sleep. Most brown-orange stains are easily removed with bleach. Tougher stains may require laser treatment, which is more expensive.

Methods, Services, Dentists, Bleaching

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