Spectral Distribution and Energy Dosage of Bleaching Lights

OBJECTIVE: The energy emitted (power*time) (350-950nm) using recommended light-to-tooth distances and bleaching times was determined for a variety of light sources.  METHODS: Lights used-code (distances, per-tooth exposure): Optilux 501 Regular mode-(501R)(0.25”, 2min); Optilux 501 bleach mode (501B), (0.25”, 2min); BriteSmile 3000PB (BR LED) (1.75”, 60min); BriteSmile BS3000 (BR MH)(1.75”, 60 min); Sapphire (S) (0.25”, 2.5 min); Sapphire Crystal (SC) (0.25”, 45 min); ZOOM (Z) (1.5”, 20 min).  Spectra were obtained by placing an opaque mask with an opening similar in size to that of a human central incisor over the entrance of the integrating sphere of a laboratory-grade spectral radiometer. Lights were directed toward the opening and held at the recommended distances. N=5 specimens/group. Energy dosage (J) was calculated as the integrated wattage under the irradiance profile (mW) obtained through the tooth-sized aperture multiplied by the recommend exposure time (s). Values were compared using ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer post-hoc at a pre-set alpha of 0.05.  RESULTS: (mean energy (J) (SD)). Similar lower case letters indicate statistical equivalence.

501R	501B	BR LED	BR MH	S	SC	Z
23.5(0.2)a	23.4(0.1)a	271.7(1.2)	268.3(0.4)	139.5(1.8)	74.9 (0.3)	36.5(0.2)

CONCLUSIONS: Using manufacturer-recommended distances and exposure times, commercial units impart a wide variety of irradiant energy to a tooth during light-enhanced vital bleaching. (study in cooperation with OraCeutical LLC)