Toxicological considerations of tooth bleaching using peroxide-containing agents.

Peroxides have been used for tooth bleaching for more than 100 years. Besides those administered in the dental office, agents for at-home bleaching have become popular. To date, there have been no published significant adverse effects caused by dentist-monitored, at-home bleaching agents. But potential risks, particularly those associated with abuses or the use of inappropriate products, need to be recognized. Using an ADA-accepted, at-home bleaching agent under a dentist's supervision is recommended to minimize risks while achieving desired benefits.