In clinical settings, office-type whitening agents typically use high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, ranging from 30% to 40%. This high concentration, activated by laser or LED light sources, quickly penetrates the porous structure of the enamel, oxidizing and breaking down the organic pigment chains that cause discoloration. In home whitening systems, this concentration is much lower (10%-22% carbamide peroxide, which is approximately equivalent to 3.5%-7% hydrogen peroxide). While high concentrations provide rapid results, they can lead to temporary dehydration in the dentin tubules and mild inflammation in the pulp chamber, increasing the risk of acute sensitivity; therefore, in clinical applications, very strict protection of the gums with barrier gels and the use of amorphous calcium phosphate or fluoride-based desensitizing agents after the procedure are critical for the health of dental tissues.
