Effect of CPP-ACP Associated With NaF or SnF₂ on Post-Bleaching Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth bleaching has become one of the most widely performed aesthetic dental procedures due to the increasing demand for whiter teeth and improved smile appearance. The procedure typically involves the use of hydrogen peroxide-based agents, which penetrate dental structures and release reactive oxygen species capable of oxidizing chromogenic molecules responsible for tooth discoloration.

Despite its effectiveness, in-office bleaching using high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (≥35%) is frequently associated with tooth sensitivity, which is considered the most common adverse effect of the procedure. This sensitivity is believed to result from the diffusion of peroxide through enamel and dentin, reaching the pulp tissue and triggering an inflammatory response that activates nociceptors.

Various strategies have been proposed to minimize post-bleaching tooth sensitivity, including the use of desensitizing agents with neural or tubule-occluding mechanisms, anti-inflammatory drugs, and photobiomodulation therapy. However, no consensus has been established regarding the most effective approach.

Casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) is a milk-derived complex with well-documented remineralizing properties. CPP stabilizes calcium and phosphate ions in an amorphous form, facilitating their release in the oral environment. These ions can be deposited on the tooth surface, forming a mineral reservoir that may help occlude dentinal tubules and reduce dentin permeability.

The addition of sodium fluoride (NaF) to CPP-ACP formulations enhances remineralization by promoting the formation of fluorapatite. Clinical studies suggest that CPP-ACP combined with NaF (CPP-ACPF) may reduce post-bleaching sensitivity by limiting the diffusion of reactive oxygen species and enhancing mineral deposition.

Stannous fluoride (SnF₂) has also been widely used in oral care products due to its anti-erosive, antimicrobial, and anti-sensitivity properties. Advances in formulation technology have improved the stability and bioavailability of Sn²⁺ ions, increasing its clinical effectiveness. Recent evidence indicates that combining SnF₂ with CPP-ACP may enhance the uptake of tin and fluoride ions into dental tissues, potentially improving protective and desensitizing effects.

However, there is limited clinical evidence evaluating the combined use of CPP-ACP and SnF₂ in the context of tooth bleaching. Therefore, this study aims to compare the effectiveness of CPP-ACP associated with NaF and CPP-ACP associated with SnF₂ in reducing tooth sensitivity after in-office bleaching, as well as to assess whether these interventions interfere with bleaching efficacy.

This study will be designed as a randomized, parallel-group, triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, conducted in accordance with CONSORT guidelines and ethical principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. Participants will provide informed consent prior to enrollment.

A total of 66 participants, in good general and oral health, will be recruited. Eligible participants must present an upper right canine shade of A2 or darker according to the Vita Classical shade guide. Exclusion criteria include active caries, periodontal disease, restorations or prostheses in anterior teeth, visible cracks, severe intrinsic discoloration, dentin exposure, previous bleaching, orthodontic treatment, systemic conditions affecting oral health, pregnancy, lactation, and allergies to milk proteins or product components.

Participants will be randomly assigned into three groups (n=22 per group):

1. CPP-ACP with sodium fluoride (MI Paste Plus),
2. CPP-ACP with stannous fluoride (MI Paste ONE Perio),
3. placebo control.

Randomization will be performed using computer-generated allocation, and allocation concealment will be ensured sealed opaque envelopes. The study will be triple-blinded, meaning that participants, operators, and outcome assessors will be unaware of group assignments. The desensitizing agents and placebo will be provided in identical containers.

All participants will undergo in-office bleaching using 35% hydrogen peroxide. Two bleaching sessions will be performed, with a 7-day interval. Each session will consist of three 15-minute applications, totaling 45 minutes.

The desensitizing agents or placebo will be applied before and after each bleaching session, following standardized procedures. Participants will be instructed to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after application.

Tooth sensitivity will be assessed using two validated scales: a 5-point numeric rating scale (NRS) and a visual analog scale (VAS). Participants will record sensitivity at the following time points: during treatment, up to 1 hour, 1-24 hours, 24-48 hours, and 48-72 hours after each bleaching session.

Tooth color will be evaluated using a spectrophotometer (VITA Easyshade) based on the CIELAB color system (L*, a*, b*). Measurements will be taken at baseline, one week after the first session, one week after the second session, and 30 days after treatment. Color differences will be calculated using ΔE*ab and CIEDE2000 (ΔE00) formulas.

Data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical tests based on data distribution. Normality will be assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Parametric or non-parametric tests will be applied accordingly, with a significance level of 5%.

The null hypotheses are that there will be no difference in tooth sensitivity among the groups and that the desensitizing protocols will not affect bleaching effectiveness. The results of this study may provide clinically relevant evidence for optimizing desensitizing protocols in in-office bleaching procedures, improving patient comfort without compromising aesthetic outcomes.