Surface characteristic assessment of bleached, unbleached and remineralised enamel- a scanning electron microscope study

Aim: To compare and assess change in morphology of human enamel after bleaching and post treatment with different remineralising agents using scanning electron microscope
Methodology: Adequate number of premolars indicated for extraction (for orthodontic purpose) were taken into consideration. Informed consent was obtained from the patients participating in the study. The teeth to be extracted were randomly divided into three groups Group I: 37.5% Hydrogen peroxide, Group II: 37.5% Hydrogen peroxide + 30 minutes in natural saliva, Group III: 37.5% Hydrogen peroxide + remineralising agent (CPP-ACP), Group IV: Untreated group. Bleaching treatment followed by different remineralising treatments were carried out for the three groups. All the specimens were decoronated, the samples were then sectioned longitudinally to obtain buccal and palatal/lingual halves. Scanning electron microscope analysis were performed on the samples. Statistical analysis using chi square test and Fisher’s exact probability test was done.
Results: Results indicated that there was considerable amount of surface alteration after bleaching treatment and the best remineralisation results were obtained with 30 minutes exposure to saliva. It may be concluded in-office bleaching agent affected human enamel morphology.