Comparison with other natural ingredients

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 108 views

Introduction

Dental color changes are a common aesthetic problem faced by many people, and bleaching is often the chosen solution. However, the use of chemicals such as 16% carbamid peroxide can be a concern due to potential side effects and dental sensitivity. In this study, we explore the effect of the duration of application of starfruit fruit extract gel (Averrhoa Bilimbi, L.) on the brightness of tooth color, and compare its effectiveness with 16% carbamid peroxide.

Background

Starfruit fruit extract gel has been known to have an oxalic acid content that can function as a tooth whitening material since 1877. This natural ingredient has been gaining attention as a potential alternative to chemical bleaching agents. However, the effectiveness of starfruit fruit extract gel in whitening teeth and its comparison with 16% carbamid peroxide have not been extensively studied.

Methodology

This experimental laboratory study used the Pre and Post Test Group Design design. The sample consisted of 27 mandibular premolar teeth taken after the extraction process. The samples were divided into three groups:

Group A: Received Wuluh starfruit fruit extract gel application for 30 minutes every day for 14 days.
Group B: Received starfruit fruit extract gel applications for 60 minutes every day for 14 days.
Group C: Received 16% carbamid peroxide applications according to use instructions.

The brightness of the tooth color was measured using the Cie LAB* method with a colorimeter (CS-10). The results showed a significant increase in the brightness of the tooth color after the bleaching process. Groups that used 16% carbamid peroxide had the highest increase in brightness, followed by groups that used starfruit fruit extract gel for 60 minutes, and finally groups that used gel for 30 minutes.

Results

Data analysis using the paired t-test and one-way ANOVA test showed a significant difference between groups applied in different ways. The Post Hoc LSD test revealed that there was a significant difference between groups using starfruit fruit extract gel for 30 minutes and 60 minutes when compared to 16% carbamid peroxide. However, there was no significant difference between the use of extract gel for 30 minutes and 60 minutes.

Discussion

This study shows that the duration of application of starfruit fruit extract gel has a significant effect on the brightness of the color of teeth. The longer the application, the greater the chance of active material in the gel to react with pigments on the surface of the tooth. Oxalic acid contained in star fruit wuluh also has a whitening property that helps reduce blemishes in teeth.

The use of natural ingredients such as starfruit fruit gel extract as an alternative bleaching ingredient is very promising, especially for those who are worried about the side effects of chemicals. Another advantage of using natural ingredients is that it is more minimal in causing dental sensitivity, which is often experienced by carbamid peroxide users.

However, it is essential to note that although starfruit fruit extract gel is proven effective, optimal results are still achieved with 16% carbamid peroxide. Therefore, for individuals who want faster and significant results, it may be better to choose chemicals, even though they must always pay attention to dental and oral health.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential of starfruit fruit extract gel as a natural alternative to chemical bleaching agents. The results show that the duration of application has a significant effect on the brightness of tooth color. Further research is needed to evaluate the long-term effects of the use of starfruit fruit extract gel as a bleaching material and its potential use in dentistry practices.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Further research: Conduct further studies to evaluate the long-term effects of the use of starfruit fruit extract gel as a bleaching material and its potential use in dentistry practices.
Natural ingredients: Explore the use of natural ingredients in dental care and educate people about safe and effective choices for maintaining health and dental appearance.
Dentistry practices: Consider incorporating starfruit fruit extract gel as a natural alternative to chemical bleaching agents in dentistry practices.

Limitations

This study has several limitations, including:

Small sample size: The sample size was limited to 27 mandibular premolar teeth.
Short duration: The study only evaluated the effect of starfruit fruit extract gel application for 14 days.
Limited comparison: The study only compared the effectiveness of starfruit fruit extract gel with 16% carbamid peroxide.

Future Directions

Future studies should aim to:

Increase sample size: Increase the sample size to provide more robust results.
Longer duration: Evaluate the effect of starfruit fruit extract gel application for a longer duration.
Comparison with other natural ingredients: Compare the effectiveness of starfruit fruit extract gel with other natural ingredients.

By addressing these limitations and exploring new directions, future studies can provide more comprehensive insights into the use of starfruit fruit extract gel as a natural alternative to chemical bleaching agents.

Q: What is starfruit fruit extract gel?

A: Starfruit fruit extract gel is a natural ingredient derived from the starfruit plant (Averrhoa Bilimbi, L.). It contains oxalic acid, which has been shown to have whitening properties that can help reduce blemishes in teeth.

Q: How does starfruit fruit extract gel work as a bleaching agent?

A: The oxalic acid in starfruit fruit extract gel reacts with pigments on the surface of the tooth, helping to break down and remove stains. This process can help to whiten and brighten the teeth.

Q: Is starfruit fruit extract gel safe to use?

A: Yes, starfruit fruit extract gel is generally considered safe to use. However, as with any new product, it's essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a patch test before using it on your teeth.

Q: How long does it take to see results with starfruit fruit extract gel?

A: The duration of application and the concentration of the gel can affect the results. In the study mentioned earlier, the groups that used starfruit fruit extract gel for 60 minutes every day for 14 days showed significant improvements in tooth color brightness.

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel if I have sensitive teeth?

A: Yes, starfruit fruit extract gel is generally considered to be gentle on teeth and gums. However, if you have sensitive teeth, it's always a good idea to consult with your dentist before using any new product.

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel in combination with other oral care products?

A: Yes, you can use starfruit fruit extract gel in combination with other oral care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash. However, be sure to follow the instructions for each product and consult with your dentist if you have any concerns.

Q: Is starfruit fruit extract gel a permanent solution for tooth discoloration?

A: No, starfruit fruit extract gel is not a permanent solution for tooth discoloration. The effects of the gel may wear off over time, and regular use may be necessary to maintain the desired results.

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel if I have dental work, such as fillings or crowns?

A: It's essential to consult with your dentist before using starfruit fruit extract gel if you have dental work, such as fillings or crowns. The gel may not be suitable for use on certain types of dental work.

Q: Where can I buy starfruit fruit extract gel?

A: Starfruit fruit extract gel may be available at some health food stores or online retailers. However, be sure to purchase from a reputable source and follow the instructions carefully.

Q: How do I store starfruit fruit extract gel?

A: Store starfruit fruit extract gel in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Follow the instructions for storage and disposal to ensure the product remains effective and safe to use.

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

A: It's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before using starfruit fruit extract gel if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The safety of the product for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established.

Q: What are the potential side effects of using starfruit fruit extract gel?

A: The potential side effects of using starfruit fruit extract gel are generally mild and may include:

Tooth sensitivity
Gum irritation
Mild stomach upset

If you experience any of these side effects, discontinue use and consult with your dentist or healthcare provider.

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel if I have a history of oral health issues?

A: It's essential to consult with your dentist before using starfruit fruit extract gel if you have a history of oral health issues, such as gum disease or tooth decay. The product may not be suitable for use in these cases.

Q: How do I know if starfruit fruit extract gel is working for me?

A: You may notice improvements in tooth color brightness and a reduction in stains after using starfruit fruit extract gel. However, the effectiveness of the product may vary depending on individual factors, such as the concentration of the gel and the duration of application.

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel in combination with other natural ingredients?

A: Yes, you can use starfruit fruit extract gel in combination with other natural ingredients, such as essential oils or herbal extracts. However, be sure to follow the instructions for each product and consult with your dentist or healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

Q: How do I dispose of starfruit fruit extract gel?

A: Dispose of starfruit fruit extract gel according to the instructions provided with the product. Typically, this involves rinsing the gel off your teeth and disposing of the gel in a trash can.

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel if I have a history of allergies?

A: It's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before using starfruit fruit extract gel if you have a history of allergies. The product may contain ingredients that can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

Q: How do I know if I am allergic to starfruit fruit extract gel?

A: If you experience any of the following symptoms after using starfruit fruit extract gel, discontinue use and consult with your healthcare provider:

Hives
Itching
Swelling
Difficulty breathing

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel if I have a history of oral cancer?

A: It's essential to consult with your dentist or healthcare provider before using starfruit fruit extract gel if you have a history of oral cancer. The product may not be suitable for use in these cases.

Q: How do I know if I am at risk for oral cancer?

A: If you have any of the following risk factors, you may be at risk for oral cancer:

Tobacco use
Alcohol use
Family history of oral cancer
Previous history of oral cancer

Consult with your dentist or healthcare provider to determine your risk level and discuss the best course of action.

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel if I have a history of gum disease?

A: It's essential to consult with your dentist before using starfruit fruit extract gel if you have a history of gum disease. The product may not be suitable for use in these cases.

Q: How do I know if I have gum disease?

A: If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have gum disease:

Bleeding gums
Swollen gums
Painful gums
Loose teeth

Consult with your dentist to determine the best course of action.

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel if I have a history of tooth decay?

A: It's essential to consult with your dentist before using starfruit fruit extract gel if you have a history of tooth decay. The product may not be suitable for use in these cases.

Q: How do I know if I have tooth decay?

A: If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have tooth decay:

Pain or sensitivity in the teeth
Visible holes or cavities in the teeth
Discoloration or staining of the teeth

Consult with your dentist to determine the best course of action.

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel if I have a history of dental work, such as fillings or crowns?

A: It's essential to consult with your dentist before using starfruit fruit extract gel if you have dental work, such as fillings or crowns. The product may not be suitable for use on certain types of dental work.

Q: How do I know if I have dental work that is not suitable for use with starfruit fruit extract gel?

A: If you have any of the following types of dental work, you may not be able to use starfruit fruit extract gel:

Fillings
Crowns
Dental implants
Bridges

Consult with your dentist to determine the best course of action.

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel if I have a history of oral surgery?

A: It's essential to consult with your dentist or healthcare provider before using starfruit fruit extract gel if you have a history of oral surgery. The product may not be suitable for use in these cases.

Q: How do I know if I have oral surgery that is not suitable for use with starfruit fruit extract gel?

A: If you have any of the following types of oral surgery, you may not be able to use starfruit fruit extract gel:

Dental implants
Bridges
Gum grafts
Bone grafts

Consult with your dentist or healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

Q: Can I use starfruit fruit extract gel if I have a history of oral health issues, such as dry mouth or tooth grinding?

A: It's essential to consult with your dentist or healthcare provider before using starfruit fruit extract gel if you have a history of oral health issues, such as dry mouth or tooth grinding. The product may not be suitable for use in these cases.

Q: How do I know if I have oral health issues that are not suitable for use with starfruit fruit extract gel?

A: If you have any of the following oral health issues, you may not be able to use starfruit fruit extract gel:

Dry mouth
Tooth grinding
Bruxism
TMJ disorders

Consult with your dentist or healthcare provider to determine the