Lumineux vs. Leading Whitening Strips Veneers Study
Aims: The aim of this project was to evaluate the effects of two different teeth whitening strips on the color, microstructure, and roughness of tea-stained porcelain and composite surfaces.
Methods: 54 porcelain and 72 composite chips served as samples for the timed application of over-the-counter cosmetic dental products, including dental whitening strips, or control treatments. The chips were randomly divided into three groups, each consisting of 18 porcelain and 24 composite chips. One porcelain set and one composite set served as controls. The remaining two groups were randomly assigned to treatment with either Oral Essentials® Whitening Strips or Crest® 3D White Whitestrips™.
Sample surface structure was examined using light microscopy, profilometry, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Additionally, a reflectance spectrophotometer was used to assess color changes in the porcelain and composite samples over 24 hours of product exposure. Data points were analyzed at each time point using ANOVA. For everyday use outside the study setting, understanding the recommended application frequency can help consumers follow a more enamel-conscious routine.
Results: In the light microscopy and SEM images, no discrete physical defects were observed in any of the samples at any time points. However, high-resolution SEM images showed an appearance of increased surface roughness in all composite samples. Using profilometry, significantly increased post-whitening roughness was documented in the composite samples exposed to the control bleaching strips. Composite samples underwent a significant and equivalent shift in color following exposure to Crest® 3D White Whitestrips™ and Oral Essentials® Whitening Strips.
Conclusions: A novel commercial cosmetic dental product demonstrated results comparable to those of a widely used over-the-counter alternative. Neither product caused physical defects in the sample surfaces. However, the control product roughened the composite samples, whereas the test product did not. Beyond immediate results, factors such as diet, oral hygiene, and lifestyle habits can influence how long the results may last.