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Restorative & Materials · single question

What is the benefit of completing bleaching BEFORE placing an anterior restoration?

  1. Post-operative sensitivity is eliminated
  2. The restoration will lighten along with the tooth
  3. Bonding strength to bleached enamel is increased
  4. The restoration can be shade-matched to the final bleached tooth colour
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Correct answer: D. The restoration can be shade-matched to the final bleached tooth colour

  • A. Incorrect. Bleaching commonly CAUSES transient sensitivity rather than eliminating it.
  • B. Incorrect. This is precisely the misconception the sequencing avoids — composite, porcelain and ceramic do not bleach.
  • C. Incorrect. This is the opposite of the truth — residual peroxide REDUCES bond strength, which is why a 2-week delay before bonding is required.
  • D. Correct. Restorative materials do not respond to bleaching agents. If the restoration is placed first, it will appear darker once the surrounding tooth lightens. Bleach first, wait 2 weeks for shade stabilisation and oxygen dissipation, then match.

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