Opalescence teeth whitening uses custom-fitted trays filled with a specialized, prescription-strength carbamide or hydrogen peroxide gel. When applied to your teeth, the active peroxide breaks down into oxygen molecules that penetrate deep into the enamel and dentin. These oxygen molecules react with the discolored compounds that cause staining, breaking the molecular bonds that hold deep-set discoloration together. Because the formula actively targets stains at a micro-level, it lightens the natural shade of your enamel without damaging the tooth structure.
Benefits Of Professional Teeth Whitening
- Superior, long-lasting results: Professional formulas remove both extrinsic surface stains and deep intrinsic discoloration far more effectively than over-the-counter options.
- Custom-tailored treatment: Custom whitening trays ensure even, uniform gel coverage while protecting delicate surrounding gum tissue from irritation.
- Enhanced safety and supervision: Having a dental professional evaluate your mouth beforehand ensures your teeth and gums are healthy enough for whitening.
- Predictable outcomes: Professional-grade gels deliver faster, more noticeable whitening that can brighten your smile by several shades in just a short timeframe.
Treating Deep Stains & Discoloration
Not all tooth discoloration resides on the surface. While everyday habits like drinking coffee, tea, or red wine cause outer enamel stains, deeper intrinsic stains can develop from aging, past trauma, or certain medications. Opalescence is specifically engineered with high-concentration formulations that reach beyond surface enamel into the dentin, lifting stubborn discoloration that standard whitening toothpastes cannot touch.
In-Office Vs. Take-Home Whitening
Patients seeking professional whitening here in Marietta, GA can choose between immediate in-office care or convenient at-home treatment:
- In-office whitening: Completed directly in the dental chair during a single 60- to 90-minute visit, utilizing the highest concentration gel for immediate, dramatic results before special events.
- Take-home whitening trays: Performed in the comfort of your own home over one to two weeks, using custom trays and a moderate-concentration gel for gradual brightening, maximum flexibility, and easy long-term maintenance.
Managing Tooth Sensitivity During Whitening
Transient tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of dental whitening, but Opalescence addresses this with a built-in PF formula (potassium nitrate and fluoride). Potassium nitrate helps desensitize nerve endings in the dentin, while fluoride strengthens enamel and reduces micro-permeability. To minimize discomfort, you can shorten daily wear times, use a desensitizing toothpaste prior to treatment, or alternate whitening days.
Maintaining Your Whitening Results
To keep your smile bright after whitening with Opalescence, maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine by brushing twice daily and flossing. Limit dark-colored beverages like coffee, cola, and red wine, or drink them through a straw to reduce contact with your front teeth. Touch-up treatments using your custom trays and fresh Opalescence gel every few months will ensure your smile stays vibrant for years to come.
Who Is A Candidate
For Opalescence™?
Opalescence is ideal for adults and teenagers with healthy teeth and healthy gums who want to brighten discolored enamel. Candidates should have a clean bill of dental health, free of active tooth decay or untreated periodontal disease. Because peroxide gels only whiten natural enamel, existing dental restorations such as porcelain crowns, tooth-colored fillings, or veneers will not change color during treatment. Your dentist can help you determine if Opalescence is the right choice for your cosmetic smile goals here in Marietta, GA.