Teeth Whitening Knowledge 5

Question 1

What role does salivary enzyme catalase play during teeth whitening?

Accepted Answer

It breaks down hydrogen peroxide, reducing its whitening effectiveness

Answer

Catalase in saliva rapidly degrades hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, which is why controlling saliva contact with the gel is important.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes 'chromogens' in the context of tooth staining?

Accepted Answer

Highly pigmented organic compounds that adhere to tooth surfaces

Answer

Chromogens are intensely colored organic molecules found in foods and beverages that bind to enamel pellicle and cause extrinsic staining.

Question 3

A patient reports their teeth appear slightly more translucent at the edges after repeated whitening. What does this suggest?

Accepted Answer

Over-bleaching leading to enamel thinning

Answer

Increased translucency at incisal edges often indicates enamel thinning from excessive whitening, which can be irreversible.

Question 4

How long after professional in-office whitening should patients typically wait before consuming staining foods and beverages?

Accepted Answer

24–48 hours

Answer

Enamel pores remain open and more susceptible to staining for approximately 24–48 hours following whitening, so patients should avoid chromogenic foods during this window.

Question 5

Which whitening method has the LONGEST lasting results, according to clinical evidence?

Accepted Answer

Professionally supervised take-home tray whitening over 2–4 weeks

Answer

Extended take-home tray whitening over several weeks produces deeper penetration and longer-lasting results compared to a single in-office session.

Teeth Whitening Practice Test

Teeth Whitening Practice Test

Teeth Whitening Knowledge 5