Opalescence Teeth Whitening

What is Opalescence Teeth Whitening?

Opalescence is a teeth whitening procedure that makes use of a bleaching gel. This procedure is used to address discolored or stained teeth and can be helpful at treating coloration issues that stem from medical treatments, trauma to the teeth, smoking, foods, drinks and other potential causes.

What does Opalescence Teeth Whitening consist of?

Opalescence teeth whitening makes use of a special bleaching gel. This gel contains 38 percent hydrogen peroxide and is stuck to the teeth with a specially viscous and sticky bonding agent. The gel also contains a patented mixture of potassium nitrate and fluoride, both of which help to reduce the risks of cavities and sensitivity changes, which occasionally come about as a result of teeth whitening procedures.

What are the advantages of Opalescence Teeth Whitening over other procedures?

In addition to providing a more thorough and complete lightening of the coloration of the teeth, and providing a more noticeable benefit than other types of whitening procedures, Opalescence also helps to ensure that the teeth are less likely to suffer from the negative effects often associated with these other procedures. Because it actively protects against increased tooth sensitivity and cavities, Opalescence is often preferred over whitening gels, strips and toothpastes.

Who is a candidate for Opalescence Teeth Whitening?

Opalescence teeth whitening is most commonly used for adult patients. Most children will not benefit greatly from a tooth whitening procedure, as their teeth are less likely to have become stained over time. The gel that is used for the whitening procedure may be harmful if swallowed, and it can be difficult to control children in this respect. Those patients who already suffer from increased sensitivity of the teeth or certain other dental issues may be precluded from this type of treatment.

What does the procedure consist of?

Unlike other types of whitening gels, which need the use of an ultraviolet light in order to activate the chemicals in the gel, Opalescence does not require this activation. Therefore, once the gums and lips have been secured out of the way of the gel, the gel is applied directly to the affected teeth and allowed to remain in position for a set period of time. It is then removed and, occasionally, reapplied one or more additional times in order to improve the overall effect of the whitening.

What are the results?

The results of the Opalescence procedure are a cleaner, more evenly white smile. The gel is typically applied to most or all of the teeth in order to ensure a uniform appearance. Aside from the reduction of risks of after effects, there are no other non-cosmetic benefits to this procedure.

What are the risks?

Opalescence carries much lower risks than many other types of whitening procedures. It is for this reason that many dentists recommend it over those other procedures, despite the fact that it may cost more money than other treatments.