Effect of antioxidant on tooth sensitivity after bleaching.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of antioxidant (sodium ascorbate) on tooth sensitivity after two in‐office bleaching techniques (light‐activated and chemical bleaching). Materials and Methods: Ten patients aged 18–25 were bleached in four groups according to bleaching materials and/or antioxidant used. Group A: Maxillary right quadrant received light‐activated bleaching with antioxidant. Group B: Maxillary left quadrant received light‐activated bleaching without antioxidant. Group C: Mandibular right quadrant received chemical bleaching without antioxidant. Group D: Mandibular left quadrant received chemical bleaching with antioxidant. The tooth sensitivity was recorded using Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and Schiff Scale (SS) immediately after treatment, 1 day, 1 week, 2 weeks, and 1 month follow‐up periods. Results: Group B exhibited higher sensitivity values than Group A. This difference was statistically significant on the first day after treatment (p = 0.027* in NRS and p = 0.046* in SS). Furthermore, antioxidant incorporation in Group D led to a reduction in teeth sensitivity values compared to Group C. This disparity was highly significant on the first day after treatment (p = 0.001* in NRS and p < 0.001** in SS). Conclusions: The antioxidant (10% sodium ascorbate) reduces the intensity of tooth sensitivity at the different follow‐up periods, especially after 1 day from bleaching. Clinical Significance: Using 10% sodium ascorbate after bleaching is advisable to reduce post‐operative tooth sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]