<p>The aim of this laboratory based study is to assess the efficiency of a tooth bleaching agent by measuring the degree of color change with a spectrophotometer (Konica Minolta, CM 2600d) and not by the usual subjective visual guide methods. Objectives of the study are: To determine tooth shade with a spectrophotometer prior to staining the tooth (baseline). To determine which insult causes the most discoloration numerically. To measure the efficiency of the bleaching agent used in the study with periodic color change pectrophotometer readings.&nbsp / To assess if the baseline tooth shade can be regained by the bleaching agent.</p>

<p>The aim of this laboratory based study is to assess the efficiency of a tooth bleaching agent by measuring the degree of color change with a spectrophotometer (Konica Minolta, CM 2600d) and not by the usual subjective visual guide methods. Objectives of the study are: To determine tooth shade with a spectrophotometer prior to staining the tooth (baseline). To determine which insult causes the most discoloration numerically. To measure the efficiency of the bleaching agent used in the study with periodic color change pectrophotometer readings.&nbsp / To assess if the baseline tooth shade can be regained by the bleaching agent.</p>

Magister Scientiae Dentium - MSc(Dent) / Summary: Aim: The aim of this laboratory study is to assess the efficacy of a tooth bleaching agent by evaluating the degree of color change with the use of a spectrophotometer and not by the usual subjective, visual methods. Methodology: Twenty specimens of human teeth will be collected, polished and divided into two groups. A baseline color measurement by the CIE L* a* b* with a spectrophotometer against a white background will be taken before one group is immersed in coffee and the other in red wine for two weeks. Bleaching of the specimens will be done according to manufacturer’s instructions for two weeks. Color readings will be taken before bleaching, weekly during bleaching and 1 and 2 weeks after the bleaching treatment. Color change (ΔE) will be calculated mathematically as Δ E = [ (Δ L*)2 + (Δ a*)2 + (Δ b*)2 ]1/2. An observation of whether the baseline color reading will be regained by the bleaching process will be made. Results: Data collected will be recorded on an Excel spreadsheet. Advice from a qualified statistician will be sought to analyze the data. Results will be discussed in comparison with the existing literature on this subject. / South Africa