Potential of Strawberry (Fragaria x annanasea) Extract as Whitening Agent for Discolored Teeth

Abstract

The Bleaching technique has long been applied in dentistry. Strawberry (Fragaria x annanasea) is a non-dental material that can be used for natural bleaching. The strawberries contain ellagic acid and malic acid which can whiten teeth. Other ingredients found in strawberries also have a low pH so they can whiten teeth better when compared to other fruits. Strawberries also give bad side effects, namely increased tooth sensitivity. This research aims to explain the potential of strawberry (Fragaria x annanasea) extract as a whitening agent against discolored teeth. Based on reference sources obtained from journals, textbooks, and websites accessed through the databases of Google Scholar, Science Direct, EBSCO, and PubMed (National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA) and searched for the keywords “Bleaching, Strawberries (Fragaria x annanasea), and Discoloration.” The types of journals taken are scientific and descriptive journals published from 2010 – 2020 and dental material textbooks from 2010 – 2020. The research concludes that the use of strawberry (Fragaria x annanasea) fruit extract can provide a whitening effect on teeth that have changed color and is the best solution compared to synthetic tooth whiteners. In addition, strawberries also provide side effects, namely increased tooth sensitivity.