Real-Time Local Experimental Monitoring of the Bleaching Process

Objective: The purpose of this article was to investigate a new setup for tooth bleaching and monitoring of the same process in real time, so to prevent overbleaching and related sideeffects of the bleaching procedure. Background data: So far, known bleaching procedures cannot simultaneously monitor and perform the bleaching process or provide any local control over bleaching. Materials and methods: The experimental setup was developed at the Institute of Physics, Zagreb. The setup consists of a camera, a controller, and optical fibers. The bleaching was performed with 25% hydrogen peroxide activated by ultraviolet light diodes, and the light for monitoring was emitted by white light diodes. The collected light was analyzed using a red-green-blue (RGB) index. A K-type thermocouple was used for temperature measurements. Pastilles made from hydroxylapatite powder as well as human teeth served as experimental objects. Results: Optimal bleaching time substantially varied among differently stained specimens. To reach reference color (A1, Chromascop shade guide), measured as an RGB index, bleaching time for pastilles ranged from 8 to >20 min, whereas for teeth it ranged from 3.5 to >20 min. The reflected light intensity of each R, G, and B component at the end of bleaching process (after 20 min) had increased up to 56% of the baseline intensity. Conclusions: The presented experimental setup provides essential information about when to stop the bleaching process to achieve the desired optical results so that the bleaching process can be completely responsive to the characteristics of every individual, leading to more satisfying results.