Written by : Dr. Urusa I Inamdar

It is used as a whitening agent in dentistry . It is available in concentration between 5 and 35% .

It is classified into organic and inorganic .

They are strong oxidizers and can be considered as the products of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) when hydrogen atoms are substituted with metals or with organic radicals .

Mechanism of action

H2O2 has a low molecular weight and hence can penetrate dentin and release oxygen that breaks down the double bond of inorganic and organic compounds inside the tubule .

Properties

• Clear , colourless , odorless liquid , stored in lightproof amber bottles .
• It is unstable and should be kept away from heat .
• It should be stored in sealed refrigerated containers .
• It has ischemic effect on skin and mucous membrane which causes burn . It is especially painful if it comes in contact with nail bed or the soft tissue under the fingernail .

About 1-2 ml amount is required for bleaching operation .

Discard the remaining solution , once treatment has been completed .

Hydrogen peroxide concentrations ranging from 3-7.5 % are used for home bleach .

It can be used alone or mixed with sodium perborate into a paste for use in the walking bleach technique .

Reference

• Grossman’s Endodontic Practice
• Google.com