American Dental Association petitions FDA to classify, regulate tooth-whitening products

CHICAGO The American Dental Association asked the Food and Drug Administration to establish appropriate classifications for tooth-whitening chemicals.

Citing concern about the safety of whitening products that are often administered without the benefit of professional consultation or examination by a dentist, the association said that the application of chemically-based tooth whitening or bleaching agents can harm teeth, gums and other tissues in the mouth.

The ADA pointed out that such concerns have prompted many states to prevent application of tooth whitening products in nondental settings.

"The tremendous expansion of products available directly to consumers and application of products in venues such as shopping malls, cruise ships, and salons is troubling since consumers have little or no assurance regarding the safety of product ingredients, doses or the professional qualifications of individuals employed in these non-dental settings," said ADA pesident Dr. Ron Tankersley and executive director Dr. Kathleen O'Loughlin, in a letter to the agency.