Background: The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the effect of Tooth Mousse and ozone on the bleaching effectiveness of peroxide (P).
Methods: Sixty enamel specimens were stained by tea infusion. P (8% carbamide peroxide solution) and the P/TM (50:50) blend were prepared freshly as required. The specimens were divided randomly into six groups: Group A - ozone followed by P; Group B - ozone concurrently with P; Group C - P alone; Group D - ozone followed by P/TM; Group E - ozone concurrently with P/TM; and Group F - P/TM alone. Ozone exposure was of 40 seconds duration. Digital photographic images were recorded at baseline and endpoint under standardized lighting and desiccation conditions. CIELAB L*a*b* values were determined.
Results: The addition of TM to P or the application of ozone with P did not significantly affect bleaching effectiveness compared with P alone. The application of ozone prior to P significantly decreased bleaching effectiveness as indicated by the DeltaL*, Deltaa*, DeltaE and %L* values. The addition of TM to the P did enhance the aesthetic by increasing the lustre and translucency of the treated enamel.
Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that Tooth Mousse may be applied concurrently with the bleach, and not reduce bleaching effectiveness.