Efficacy of LED versus KTP laser activation of photodynamic bleaching of tetracycline-stained dentine.

In some well-established laser applications where large spot sizes are used, an array of high-intensity light emitting diodes (LED) emitting at similar wavelength could potentially replace the laser. This situation applies for the photodynamic bleaching of stains in teeth. This study compared the relative efficacy of an array of visible green LED (535 nm ± 15 nm) with a KTP laser in photodynamic bleaching of tetracycline-stained dentine in human tooth roots. After establishing consistent staining in 96 roots using a validated method, the roots were sectioned into 2-3-mm thick horizontal slices that were treated with gels containing rhodamine B (Smartbleach® or Smartbleach® 3LT). Colour changes were tracked up to 1 month after treatment. While both systems were effective in bleaching the tetracycline-stained dentine, KTP laser activation gave greater bleaching efficacy than LED activation, enhancing the action of the gel. Use of the KTP laser would be preferable over an LED system when confronted with tetracycline staining. Use of this photodynamic bleaching method offers valuable means to reduce the severity of tetracycline staining.