ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the whitening efficacy and longevity of home bleaching. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 28 patients were divided into either experimental group (Opalescence F; 15% carbamide peroxide) or control group randomly. The patients in experimental group were instructed to wear individual trays applied with bleaching gel for 2 hours a day for 4 weeks. Any treatments weren't applied to the patients in control group. The color measurements of central incisors, lateral incisors & canines of upper and lower arch were recorded at base line, immediately after the finishment of treatmemt (4 weeks), 8 weeks and 12 weeks using Colorimeter (Chroma Meter, 2600d Konica Minolta co.) and Vitapan classical shade guide (Vita Zahnfabrik). RESULTS: A significantly stronger color change was observed for overall teeth samples in experimental group immediately after treatment (at 4 weeks) compared to ones in control group (p < 0.05). There was also a significant difference between baseline and 8 weeks or 12 weeks separately though color rebouncing phenomenon occurred as time went by (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The clinical effecacy and longevity of home bleaching without combined application of in-office bleaching was observed through this experiment.