Objective: Post-treatment monitoring of tetracycline patients after vital bleaching is a useful model to assess long term safety, whitening stability and satisfaction. This recall was conducted to evaluate 5-year post-treatment response following extended use of peroxide-containing whitening strips. Methods: In the original research, 40 adults with tetracycline stain were randomized 3:1 to 6.5% hydrogen peroxide whitening strips or 10% carbamide peroxide gel system in a custom tray. Treatment was daily for 6 months on the maxillary arch. Outcomes were measured via a 16-step shade guide, clinical examination and interview to assess any tooth sensitivity or oral irritation during treatment. At study completion, subjects were discharged with 6-months of whitening products for the mandibular arch. Five years after the completion of the original research, subjects were recalled to assess post-treatment adverse events and whitening stability. Results: The original study population ranged from 22-70 years of age, averaged moderate levels of tetracycline stain, and both groups experienced highly significant (p < 0.0001) 10.5-10.7 units of shade improvement after 6-months continuous daily treatment. A total of 11 subjects (9 in the strip and 2 in the tray groups) were successfully contacted after 5 years. Clinical examination showed no long term oral hard or soft tissue safety problems subsequent to original treatment. Interview yielded no reports of treatment-related sensitivity or other side effects. Overall, mean (SD) 5-year shade change was 3.3 (3.3) units, similar in magnitude for each group. There was no evidence of treatment-related response bias. Conclusion: This recall study provides evidence of longer term, post-treatment safety and shade improvement following professionally-administered tooth whitening of tetracycline stain. (This research was supported in part by The Procter & Gamble Co.)

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