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Opalescence Whitening

If you prefer teeth that are immediately whiter right now or you would rather whiten your teeth over a few nights while you sleep, your Doctor has your answer with Opalescence Whitening. The Opalescence In-Office Whitening System uses proprietary technology to whiten your teeth an average of eight shades* in a little over an hour while you relax at your dentist’s office. It’s ideal for anyone who wants immediate results. The Opalescence Take-Home Whitening System uses a revolutionary patent-pending gel to whiten your teeth an average of six shades in three nights*. And you may go even lighter with additional applications. Start on Friday and by Monday you’ll have a whole new smile.

Strips or paint-on gels are a waste of time. Get your teeth whiter in a fraction of the time with Opalescence.

What is Opalescence tooth whitening?

Opalescence is a bleaching process that lightens discoloration of enamel and dentin.

What can cause tooth discoloration?

There are many causes. The most common include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea or tobacco. During tooth formation consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration.

Who may benefit from tooth whitening?

Just about anyone can benefit from tooth whitening. However, treatment may not be as effective for some as it is for others. With an oral exam, your Doctor can determine if you are a candidate for this procedure, including a shade assessment.

Is tooth whitening becoming more popular?

Absolutely! A bright, beautiful smile can make a big difference. The Opalescence Whitening System makes it easier and faster than ever before.

Is tooth whitening safe?

Yes, research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. As with any tooth whitening product, Opalescence is not recommended for children under 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.

Do the results last a long time?

By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. We recommend flossing, brushing twice daily, and touch-ups with Opalescence take-home gel. These are professional formula products designed specifically to keep your teeth their brightest. They are available through our office.

Is there any difference between over-the-counter tooth whiteners and Opalescence?

Yes! Consulting your Doctor is always the first step to whitening your teeth safely. Over-the-counter tooth whitening strips, brush-on gels and toothpastes take weeks or months to whiten your teeth just a few shades. Opalescence is clinically proven to whiten your teeth eight shades* in one hour or six shades* in just one weekend.

How does the Opalescence In-Office System work?

The Opalescence light-activated whitening gel’s active ingredient is Hydrogen Peroxide. As Hydrogen Peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching any colored substance while keeping the structure of the tooth unchanged. The Opalescence light aids in activating the Hydrogen Peroxide and helps it penetrate the surface of the tooth.

Is the Opalescence In-office procedure painful?

No. During the procedure, patients can actually watch television or listen to music. Many fall asleep.

Are there any side effects?

Some people experience temporary increased tooth sensitivity to cold during treatment. These symptoms disappear within 1-3 days after interruption or completion of the treatment.

How long is the procedure?

The entire procedure takes just over one hour. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed by one hour of bleaching. A five-minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure (we recommend a cleaning prior to the actual Opalescence Whitening session).

How long does Opalescence Take-Home Whitening take?

The Opalescence take-home gel is designed to be worn between four and eight hours per application. Your Doctor will advise you on how long you should wear each application. Your Doctor will help you determine how many applications are right for you.

How is the Opalescence Take-Home System different from the In-Office System?

The main difference between the two systems is that you use the Opalescence Take-Home System in the convenience of your own home over a few nights. The Opalescence In-Office System is performed entirely in the office.

Whitening

Having a beautiful smile may be even easier than you think. Many people achieve the look they’ve been dreaming of with our simple “bleaching” procedure.

What are the details of teeth whitening?

It’s safe, quick, and inexpensive. Just let us know at any appointment if you would like to whiten your teeth. You can lighten only your upper teeth or both the upper and lower, depending on how much you show when you talk and smile.

In only a day or two your custom bleach splints will be ready for you to pick up. We provide you with a special bleaching agent that you put into the clear splints. With only a few hours of wear per day, our special bleaching agent bubbles stains right out of your enamel in a very short time without altering tooth structure or existing dental work in any way. When your teeth reach the desired brightness, only occasional treatment is needed to maintain your new smile. We’ll want to take “after” photos at your next appointment.

Dental bleaching can be used to correct tooth discoloration. Discolorations can be caused by staining, aging, or chemical damage to teeth. Using the latest in bleaching technology, we can offer a safe method for creating a beautiful “brilliant” smile. In cases of extreme tooth discoloration, crowns or veneers may be the only choice, but because of the low cost of bleaching treatments, bleaching is nearly always worth a solid try.

Key Benefits of Teeth Whitening

  • Corrects brown, yellow and spotted tooth staining
  • Works on people of any age
  • Is a near-permanent solution for a “dull” smile, restoring brightness and brings a smile alive

How is teeth whitening done?

An impression is taken to make a specialized “mouthguard” or “stent” to hold the bleach against the teeth. The material is used each night for about 3-4 hours for a week or two, and at the end of this time, significant whitening will occur. In some cases, the change is nothing short of brilliant. For confidence in appearance, bleaching technology allows us to promise improvements in yellowing, aging or stained teeth. For very severely stained teeth, crowns or porcelain veneers may be more appropriate.

Considerations for Teeth Whitening

Over-the-counter bleaching agents are available for purchase at drug stores and pharmacies. However, since these products can cause harm to the gums and teeth, it’s better to use products that our practice recommends.