Diode laser-activated bleaching.

Abstract

This study describes a preclinical investigation with laser-activated bleaching agent for discolored teeth. Bleaching techniques involve a broad-spectrum approach utilizing hydrogen peroxide (3-38%) with or without heat or laser, carbamide peroxide (10-30%), or a mixture of sodium perborate and hydrogen peroxide. Extracted human maxillary central incisors were selected. In the bleaching experiment, 38% hydrogen peroxide was used. Two different laser systems and light emission diodes for activation of the bleaching agent were used: diode laser, wavelength 970 nm, and infra-red diode laser, wavelength 790 nm, with eight blue light emission diodes, wavelength 467 nm. The enamel surface was evaluated with the scanning electron microscope. The method of chemical oxidation resulted in a 2-3 shade change in one treatment (15 min). Shorter time (5 min) was not effective. The diode laser, wavelength 970 nm, and the bleaching agent produced the same effect but with a shorter time of bleaching process (5 min - 1 W, 2.5 min - 2 W). Infra-red diode laser, wavelength 790 nm with eight blue light emission diodes, wavelength 467 nm, and the bleaching agent reached the desired color shade also after a shorter time (5 min - 40 mW). Slight surface modification after the bleaching process was detected with scanning electron microscopy. Currently, the laser has been proven the most valuable energy source for power bleaching with simple and short application in the dental office.