Bleaching efficacy of in-office dental bleaching with different application protocols: a single-blind randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE

This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the equivalence in the color change, adverse effects, self-perception (AS) and the impact on oral condition (IO) of participants submitted to different application protocols of in-office dental bleaching.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

165 participants were bleached with a 35% hydrogen peroxide gel (Total Blanc Office One-Step, DFL), according to the following protocols: (1) 2 applications of 20-min each (2 × 20 min); (2) 1 × 40-min and; (3) 1 × 30-min. The color change was evaluated with the Vita Easyshade spectrophotometer, Vita Classical and Vita Bleachedguide scales. The intensity and risk of tooth sensitivity (TS) and gingival irritation (GI) were recorded using a 0-10 visual analogue scale (VAS). AS and IO was assessed before and after the bleaching procedure using the Orofacial Aesthetic Scale and Oral Health Impact Profile-14, respectively.

RESULTS

Equivalent color change were observed (p < 0.001), with no significant difference between groups. The group 2 × 20 min presented the highest risk of TS (76%, 95% CI 63 to 85), compared to the 1 × 30 min (p < 0.04). The intensity of TS and GI and the risk of GI was similar between groups (p > 0.31). Irrespectively of the group (p = 0.32), significant improvements were observed for all items of AS and IO after bleaching (p < 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The 1 × 30 min protocol produced equivalent color change to the other bleaching protocols with reduced risk of TS and shorter application time.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

A more simplified application regimen of a single application of 30 min yields effective bleaching and patient satisfaction while minimizing undesirable side effects and improving patient satisfaction.