Chemical, Photothermal and Photochemical Bleaching methods

The bleaching methods can be divided into three main groups:

Chemical bleaching
In this technique, only a paste or gel is used and applied to the teeth one way or another, often with the help of individually made-up ‘spoons’. It is important to keep in mind that this method of bleaching may have a certain amount of negative impact on the enamel.

Photothermal bleaching
This method also utilizes a gel; it is applied to the teeth and with the help of a light source heated. The light source can consist of a series of LED lights, a lamp or a diode-laser. Here too, one needs to be mindful of the possible negative impact on the enamel. Additionally, due to the heating process, there is an added risk of damage to the teeth.

Photochemical bleaching
This method activates the gel utilizing a UV-lamp (blue light) or a KTP laser (green light). This method differs from the ones mentioned above in that the light source also has a bleaching effect on the teeth (photo oxidation). This treatment makes a deeper whitening of the teeth possible. When using the UV-light, the surrounding tissues (lips, gums, tongue, etc.) will need to be well protected to avoid possible burn wounds. When using the KTP laser, there is no risk in burning, but the gums will need to be protected (gingiva block) to avoid the gel leaking into them. A big advantage of bleaching with the KTP laser is that the extensive scientific research has shown that there is no adverse effect on the enamel. The fluoride treatment applied afterwards even strengthens the enamel and prevents caries.