Teeth Whitening Whitening Safety & Sensitivity 2

Question 1

Overuse of whitening products can lead to a condition where teeth appear translucent or blue-gray. What is this called?

Accepted Answer

Over-bleaching or bleachorexia

Answer

Bleachorexia refers to excessive, compulsive whitening that erodes enamel, causing the underlying dentin's blue-gray hue to show through.

Question 2

What does the FDA currently classify most over-the-counter whitening products as in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Cosmetics, not drugs

Answer

OTC whitening toothpastes and strips are generally classified as cosmetics by the FDA, whereas higher-concentration professional products may be regulated as drugs.

Question 3

Swallowing a small amount of dilute whitening gel accidentally is likely to cause what immediate effect?

Accepted Answer

Mild nausea or stomach irritation at worst

Answer

Small amounts of low-to-moderate concentration peroxide ingested accidentally cause mild GI irritation at most; however, large amounts of high-concentration gel require medical attention.

Question 4

Which of the following tooth conditions is LEAST responsive to conventional peroxide whitening?

Accepted Answer

Severe tetracycline staining (gray/brown banding)

Answer

Tetracycline staining is deeply incorporated into dentin and can require prolonged, repeated treatment or alternative cosmetic options like veneers.

Question 5

What does it mean when gum tissue turns white or 'blanches' during whitening?

Accepted Answer

The peroxide has temporarily irritated or chemically burned the gingival tissue

Answer

Blanching is a chemical burn reaction where peroxide oxidizes hemoglobin and tissue proteins in the gingiva; it is painful but usually reverses within 30–60 minutes.

Teeth Whitening Practice Test

Teeth Whitening Practice Test

Teeth Whitening Whitening Safety & Sensitivity 2