Colorimeter and Scanning Electron Microscopy Analysis of Teeth Submitted to Internal Bleaching

Introduction: This in vitro study compared the tooth color and the ultrastructure of internal dental tissues before and after internal bleaching. Methods: Sodium perborate was placed in the pulp chamber of endodontically treated molars and sealed with intermediate restorative material. The test samples were stored in a physiologic solution, and the bleaching agent was replaced every 7 days. A control group was used. After 1 month, the colors of the test and control samples were measured with a colorimeter, and the internal surfaces were observed under field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Results: Statistically significant differences were found between the test and control sample colors. The FESEM ultrastructure analysis of the internal enamel and dentin surfaces did not show any changes after the internal bleaching. Conclusions: The results of the present study show that sodium perborate is effective in bleaching nonvital teeth and does not produce ultrastructural changes in the dental tissues. (J Endod 2010;36:334-337)