The effectiveness of teeth whitening products on the Maltese market in adults : an objective overview

Abstract

Teeth whitening is the process of using peroxide or other materials to make teeth look whiter. The materials remove stains or other discoloration from the tooth surface. The aim of this paper firstly to assess the effectiveness of different teeth whitening products, secondly to highlights any undesirable effects of whitening on the soft oral tissues, lastly to evaluate if achieving teeth whitening can serve as motivational tool for patients to improve their oral hygiene. • Methods Sample of 127 people participated, out of which 80 qualified by meeting inclusion criteria. Participants were randomly divided into 8 groups, each group using different products. Participants attended for a collection of data and taking of measurements during 4 different timepoints. • Results Only professional teeth whitening provided by dental professional showed significant tooth shade improvement. Teeth whitening had no significant impact on soft oral tissue. It was emphasized that patients seeking teeth whitening can have some oral health issues they are not aware of, thus they should undergo a routine check-up prior to treatment. It was also proven that teeth whitening can well serve as a motivating factor for patients to improve their oral hygiene status. • Conclusion Only non-OTC products showed significant colorimetric shade improvement. Whitening treatment had no significant impacts on soft oral tissue. Achieved teeth whitening improved oral health with an indirect relation. • Recommendations and implications for practice It is essential to make society aware that OTC products are not as effective as they claim to be compared to non-OTC products. A policy demanding a check-up performed by a dental professional before teeth whitening at a dental clinic prior to any whitening treatment could be formed. Teeth whitening can be recommended by dental professionals as an in-direct form of motivation to improve patients’ oral health and to keep up with their regular routine check-ups.