Opalescence® Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.

Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are a number of ways to whiten teeth.  The most popular method is using a home teeth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically.  Since teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate the replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc.  Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

Teeth whitening is not permanent.  A touch-up may be needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.

Reasons for teeth whitening:

• Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
• Normal wear of outer tooth layer.
• Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).
• Yellow, brown stained teeth.

What does teeth whitening involve? 

This type of teeth whitening usually requires two visits.  At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear, plastic, trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary.  The trays are worn with a special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.  It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.

Opalescence ^® is a proven teeth whitening treatment that eliminates organic stains on the teeth and significantly brightens the smile. Opalescence ^® can be used with or without light activation of the gel provided at the discretion of the dentist. Opalescence ^® is an exceptionally quick and simple treatment. Bleaching gel is applied to the teeth for around 45 minutes. Opalescence ^® is completely safe and helps to protect dental enamel during treatment with added potassium nitrate and fluoride.

Why should I consider Opalescence ^®?

Opalescence ^® combines hydrogen peroxide that serves to whiten the teeth, with potassium nitrate that reduces sensitivity and strengthens enamel. This treatment can only be used on generally healthy teeth that are free from disease and decay.

There are a great many reasons why Opalescence ^® is often preferred over other brands, including:

• Minimizes tooth sensitivity

• Promotes strong tooth enamel

• Quick treatment times

• Reduces risk of tooth dehydration

• Proven results

How is the Opalescence ^® treatment performed?

Opalescence ^® whitening gel contains 38% hydrogen peroxide and potassium nitrate. After in-office treatment, gel and toothpaste containing lower concentrations of the whitening formula may be prescribed for use at home. The Opalescence ^® whitening gel is thick, which reduces mess during application.

Here is how the procedure will be performed:

• A thorough cleaning will remove debris from the surfaces of the teeth

• Photographs will be taken to record the current color of the teeth

• A cheek retractor will be inserted to expose the surfaces of key teeth

• A resin will be painted onto the gums to protect them

• The first covering of Opalescence ^® whitening gel will be applied to the teeth for 15 minutes

• The dentist will suction off the gel and check the whitening progress

• More gel will be applied for a further 15 minutes

• Again, the gel will be removed

• The mouth will be rinsed and the final round of whitening gel will be applied.

• The mouth will be cleaned and photographs of teeth color post-treatment will be taken

If the dentist chooses to expedite the whitening process with a specialized light, the light will be applied for approximately 30 seconds per gel application. The entire procedure, including the initial cleaning, should take no more than 90 minutes.

If you have questions or concerns about Opalescence ^® or any other whitening treatment, please contact our office.