Over-the-counter whitening products:
a literature review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22456/2177-0018.135972Keywords:
Tooth bleaching, Esthetics, dental, Products of consumer direct sale, Charcoal, DentifricesAbstract
Aim: To review the literature regarding the effects of over-the-counter (OTC) dental whitening products available in the Brazilian market. Literature review: PubMed, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases were consulted, along with a manual reference search. The relentless pursuit of the perfect smile has led to an increased demand for aesthetic procedures, such as dental whitening, recommended by dentists due to their proven safety and efficacy. However, amid the demand for more affordable alternatives that do not require professional supervision, over-the-counter whitening products have emerged in the market as alternative options to professional whitening. Discussion: The prevalence of laboratory studies highlights that the efficacy of OTC products differs from professional treatments. Whitening toothpaste containing peroxide demonstrates effectiveness in reducing extrinsic stains, with wear similar to or lower than regular toothpaste, depending on the evaluated substrate. On the other hand, whitening mouthwashes show limited evidence of efficacy compared to products with higher concentrations of peroxide. Home remedies and natural whitening products have proven ineffective compared to professional treatments, raising concerns about their safety due to the potential for causing irreversible damage to dental structure. Activated charcoal lacks whitening effects, has potential abrasiveness, and causes staining on the oral mucosa. Conclusion: Although OTC whitening products may be appealing for their autonomy, they generally do not demonstrate significant efficacy. Their use should be recommended with caution, preferably under professional guidance. Emphasizing the importance of continuous education, dentists should stay abreast of trends in this field.
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