Experience of tooth whitening among Hong Kong young adults

Abstract

Objective: To describe the interest in and experience of tooth whitening among Hong Kong young adults. Method: This survey sites chosen were the entrances to large shopping malls or public transport centres in different districts throughout Hong Kong. Pedestrians who looked young and were not in a hurry were invited for a face-to-face interview using a structured questionnaire. The questions were pilot-tested to ensure that they could be easily understood. Photographs of popular over-the-counter (OTC) tooth whitening products were shown to the interviewees. Adults aged 18- 44 years were asked about their awareness and use of tooth whitening products and services. For those who had used tooth whitening product/service, questions on their experience and satisfaction were asked.

Results: A total of 1159 adults satisfying the inclusion criteria were approached and 693 interviews were conducted, giving a response rate of 59.8%. There were 401 (58%) women and 292 (42%) men, and half (52%) of them were attending or had completed university education. Most (80%) of the interviewees were not satisfied with the color of their teeth. A higher proportion of the women than men were aware of the availability of tooth whitening product/service (76% vs. 58%, p<0.001), had a perceived need for tooth whitening (61% vs. 53%, p<0.001), and used the product/service (56% vs. 42%, p<0.001). Among the users, the most commonly used OTC product was whitening toothpaste (86%) while only 3% had tried tooth bleaching provided by dentists. Around 70% of the OTC product users were dissatisfied with the outcome, mainly not white enough; while 78% reported that their experience was different from the product manufacturers’claims.

Conclusion: Awareness and use of OTC tooth whitening products is common among Hong Kong young adults but most are not satisfied with the outcome.