Teeth Whitening Whitening Ingredients & Chemistry 2

Question 1

What does PAP stand for in the context of newer non-peroxide whitening formulas?

Accepted Answer

Phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid

Answer

PAP (phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid) is a peroxide-free oxidizing agent used in some whitening products claimed to cause less sensitivity.

Question 2

Intrinsic tooth stains caused by tetracycline antibiotics are classified as what type of discoloration?

Accepted Answer

Intrinsic chromogenic staining

Answer

Tetracycline staining is a classic intrinsic discoloration where the antibiotic incorporates into the developing dentin during tooth formation.

Question 3

Why is a higher concentration of peroxide NOT always more effective for at-home whitening trays?

Accepted Answer

It breaks down too quickly before adequate penetration occurs

Answer

Very high concentrations decompose rapidly on contact with saliva and oral tissues, leaving less active peroxide available to penetrate and bleach.

Question 4

Titanium dioxide is included in some whitening products mainly for what purpose?

Accepted Answer

To provide immediate optical whitening via light reflection

Answer

Titanium dioxide is an opacifying white pigment that gives an instant visual whitening effect through light scattering, but it does not bleach the tooth.

Question 5

What pH range do professional whitening gels typically maintain to balance efficacy and enamel safety?

Accepted Answer

5.5–7.0

Answer

Professional gels are formulated around pH 5.5–7.0 to keep peroxide chemically active while minimizing acidic erosion of enamel.

Teeth Whitening Practice Test

Teeth Whitening Practice Test

Teeth Whitening Whitening Ingredients & Chemistry 2