Teeth Whitening Teeth Whitening 2

Question 1

Which ingredient in whitening toothpaste physically scrubs away surface stains?

Accepted Answer

Hydrated silica

Answer

Hydrated silica is a mild abrasive added to whitening toothpastes to mechanically remove surface stains.

Question 2

A patient has tetracycline-stained teeth. Which whitening approach is most likely to produce results?

Accepted Answer

Prolonged at-home bleaching over several months

Answer

Tetracycline stains are intrinsic and stubborn, typically requiring prolonged at-home bleaching over weeks to months for noticeable improvement.

Question 3

What is the primary role of a light or laser during an in-office whitening procedure?

Accepted Answer

It activates or accelerates the bleaching gel

Answer

The light or laser is used to activate and accelerate the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide in the whitening gel, not to bleach directly.

Question 4

Which of the following foods is MOST likely to re-stain teeth immediately after whitening?

Accepted Answer

Blueberries

Answer

Blueberries contain dark pigments (chromogens) that can penetrate open enamel pores right after whitening, causing re-staining.

Question 5

Carbamide peroxide breaks down in the mouth into hydrogen peroxide and which other compound?

Accepted Answer

Urea

Answer

Carbamide peroxide decomposes into hydrogen peroxide (the active bleaching agent) and urea.

Teeth Whitening Practice Test