- V B Haywood: Department of Prosthodontics, University of North Carolina, School of Dentistry, Chapel Hill.
The conservative technique for bleaching vital teeth using a nightguard and a 10% carbamide peroxide solution has captured the esthetic interests of the dental profession. The purpose of this article is to assess the safety of the products used in this bleaching technique based on results from past related research and current research. Ten percent carbamide peroxide solutions used in numerous studies have demonstrated tissue-healing properties as well as a propensity for the reduction of plaque and gingivitis. None of these clinical studies revealed any untoward or detrimental side effects, and all demonstrated beneficial effects. Although some concern exists regarding the potentiating effects of peroxide solutions in the presence of known carcinogens, concerns of toxicity or damage to hard and soft tissues appear unfounded. The majority of current and past research and literature indicates that the current use of a 10% carbamide peroxide solution in the method advocated for bleaching vital teeth is apparently safe when administered properly under the supervision of a dentist.