Effect of Hydrogen Peroxide at 35% on the Morphology of Enamel and Interference in the De-remineralization Process: An In Situ Study

This study evaluated the microhardness and histomorphology of bovine enamel when 35% hydrogen peroxide is used. A total of 44 specimens were adapted to removable devices used by 11 individuals subjected to dental caries challenge. A decrease in microhardness was observed for all groups after the cariogenic challenge. Microscopic analysis revealed that fragments subjected to cariogenic challenge associated with bleaching had more intense superficial histologic changes, but the depth of the lesions remained unchanged. It was concluded that 35% hydrogen peroxide enhanced the reduction in hardness and histomorpho-logic changes in the enamel surface exposed to cariogenic challenge.