Tooth sensitivity related to vital teeth dental bleaching – a literature review

Abstract

Dental bleaching can be performed in at-home or in-office techniques, using agents such as carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Although it’s safe, there are some side effects related to dental bleaching, such as tooth sensitivity, which may be present in different degrees, depending on the chosen technique. The application of desensitizing agents before, during or after dental bleaching is being studied to avoid or reduce the bleaching related sensitivity. The study aims to review the literature over important aspects and concepts of dental bleaching, discussing its possible side effects, focusing on tooth sensitivity. Methods: an online search was done on Medline’s database, through PubMed, using keywords related to the theme, prioritizing articles published less than 20 years ago, written in English or Portuguese. Articles were also researched manually, and dentistry books related to the theme were used as well. Out of 48 articles, 28 were chosen to this study’s composition, in addition to 2 books that approach dental bleaching. Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect related to dental bleaching, with an unknown cause, however, it is known that it’s related to hydrogen peroxide’s diffusion through dental tissues. Tooth sensitivity is more frequent within in-office technique than within at-home technique, and may be worsen by individual and/or dental related factors. Agents such as potassium nitrate, CPP-ACP, bioactive glasses and hydroxyapatite particles, showed up to be effective in dental sensitivity control.

Keywords: dental bleaching; dentin sensitivity; desensitizing.