Carbamide & Hydrogen Peroxide

Peroxide-based whitening changes tooth colour by acting on discoloured molecules. External whitening has limited ability to remove intrinsic stains located within dentine.

Carbamide peroxide is used in tray-based whitening and has also been used for internal bleaching of non-vital discoloured teeth.

A systematic review found limited evidence that 37% carbamide peroxide may be similarly effective to 35% hydrogen peroxide for in-office bleaching and may cause less bleaching sensitivity.

Existing restorations generally do not change colour during whitening. Their colour and position can therefore affect how even the final result looks.

Temporary mild to moderate sensitivity is common with bleaching and can affect up to two-thirds of users early in treatment. With strips or trays, it may begin after two or three days and usually settles by the fourth day after treatment.