Method for whitening teeth
US5713738A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 5, 1996 |
| Grant date | Feb 3, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 5, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61K2800/81
- WIPO fieldPharmaceuticals
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method for whitening teeth which utilizes laser light to activate bleaching agents applied to the teeth is disclosed. The mouth is first prepared so that the soft tissues of the gums are protected and only the teeth are exposed. The teeth are cleaned to remove any materials which will reduce or nullify the effects of the bleaching agents. A first bleaching composition comprising a peroxide compound is prepared and applied to the teeth. The teeth are exposed to laser light from an argon laser which light activates the peroxide to accelerate the bleaching process without heat. If further whitening is desired, a second bleaching composition comprising a peroxide compound is prepared and applied to the teeth. The teeth are briefly exposed to laser light from a carbon dioxide laser which heat activates the peroxide to accelerate the bleaching process.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.