Tooth whitening: concepts and controversies

Abstract

Today's society dictates that it is the norm for people to have straight, white teeth. The demand therefore for tooth whitening in dental practice has increased exponentially over the last decade. A common approach to achieving this goal is by bleaching. This article discusses clinical aspects of dental bleaching by providing an evidence-based review of current literature. Topics covered include aetiology of tooth discolouration, indications for bleaching, its mode of action, different types of bleaching regimes, indications and potential side effects.