Work

Experimental approaches to tooth staining and standardization for in vitro bleaching research

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objectives To map and analyze laboratory tooth discoloration protocols used in in vitro bleaching studies, identifying methodological trends and gaps in experimental standardization. Search Strategy A systematic search was conducted using controlled descriptors and free terms related to tooth discoloration, artificial staining, and tooth bleaching. Boolean operators (AND/OR) were applied, and search strategies were adapted to each database. No restrictions were imposed regarding language or publication period. Citation Sources PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched. In addition, the reference lists of included studies were hand searched to identify potentially relevant articles not captured in the primary search. Study Selection Criteria Eligible studies were in vitro investigations describing laboratory tooth discoloration protocols applied before enamel bleaching and those including objective or subjective color assessment. Studies without subsequent bleaching protocols, without color analysis, or involving clinical trials were excluded. Data Elements Included Extracted data included tooth type and substrate, sample size, initial tooth condition, agent of staining, duration and conditions of staining, storage medium, and methods of color assessment. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Quality Assessment Tool for In Vitro Studies. Overall Conclusions Sixty-one studies were included, and most had a low risk of bias. Human and bovine teeth were the most common substrates, with black tea and coffee as the predominant staining agents. Immersion protocols of 5 through 7 days at 37 °C were frequently reported, and color changes were mainly assessed by spectrophotometry using the color difference. Substantial methodological variability was observed, highlighting the need for greater standardization to improve reproducibility and comparability of in vitro bleaching studies.

Source: JADA Foundational Science

DOI: 10.1016/j.jfscie.2026.100077

Authors: Gabriella Rodrigues da Silva, Bruna Roberta Araújo Leal, Letícia de Azevedo Lima Silva, Caroline Barbosa da Silva Almeida, Pedro Henrique Sette-de-Souza, Moan Jéfter Fernandes Costa

Institution: Universidade de Pernambuco

Language: English

Topic: Dental Erosion and Treatment

Subfield: General Dentistry

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,500