Editorial meets Science—new format bridges expert knowledge and practical application

The series debuted in December last year with a round table organised by Philips that focused on tooth whitening. Experts from various European countries shared insights on the latest studies and clinical experiences. The panel then addressed questions from editors at Dental Tribune International and OEMUS MEDIA.

The meeting concluded with six key takeaways aimed at supporting dentists and other oral healthcare professionals:

1. Tooth whitening promotes oral health by raising awareness, encouraging better self-care, and supporting personalised preventive care and wellness.
2. The EU’s 6% hydrogen peroxide concentration limit for tooth whitening maintains treatment efficacy while ensuring patient safety, reducing risks such as sensitivity and damage to hard and soft tissue, including the pulp.
3. Manufacturers should comply with EU regulations for in-office, light-activated and take-home tooth whitening products to ensure consumer protection.
4. Professional supervision is essential for all tooth whitening methods. In-office treatments are preferred for safety and efficiency, and at-home systems should be administered by an oral healthcare professional for the first use.
5. Intense blue light enhances whitening results when used with low-concentration hydrogen peroxide, such as 6%, delivering safe and rapid outcomes.
6. Manufacturers should support scientific research by publishing data that demonstrates product efficacy and safety.

Speaking at the first Editorial meets Science meeting, Dr Iain Chapple, a renowned professor of periodontics in the UK, highlighted the importance of balancing efficacy with safety: “If combining lower doses of 6% hydrogen peroxide with light activation achieves results comparable to higher concentrations, it will be well received, as it aligns with legal requirements.” He added, “According to data of the UK Oral Health Foundation from 2020, 48% of people under the age of 35 plan to have their teeth whitened within the next year. Additionally, 32% of Brits desire whiter teeth, while 66% have actively considered it.”

Dr Michael J. Noack, professor emeritus and former head of the department of operative dentistry and periodontics at the University of Cologne in Germany, commented on the scientific basis for current whitening protocols: “As a scientist, I have followed the research on the efficacy of teeth whitening products for many years. The recent findings by Gottenbos et al. clearly show that some chromophores can be lightened with hydrogen peroxide (H_₂O_₂), while others require activation with light—either solely or in combination. The data indicate that treatment protocols combining both hydrogen peroxide and light activation offer the most reliable outcomes in removing discolourations. Ultimately, the new EU regulation capping hydrogen peroxide at 6% prioritises patient safety. Since product systems combining 6% H_₂O_₂ with light activation are available, the true beneficiary is the patient.”

Dr Virginie Monnet-Corti, professor and head of the periodontics department at Aix-Marseille University in France, added: “The popularity of teeth whitening treatments is on the rise, driven by aesthetic standards, technological innovations, and the increasing availability of at-home whitening kits. In-office treatments are generally endorsed by dentists, whereas over-the-counter products remain somewhat controversial due to the risks they pose to enamel and gums.”

She continued: “The growing demand for teeth whitening is clearly influenced by societal beauty ideals, continuous technological advancements, and easy access to do-it-yourself solutions.”