Tooth 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 tooth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically.  Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc.  Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

Tooth whitening is not permanent.  A touch-up maybe needed, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.

Reasons for tooth 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 tooth whitening involve?

Opalescence Go is a specialized take-home whitening treatment that will only take up to one hour per day.  The kit includes whitening gel pre placed in plastic trays.  There is nothing complicated, messy or time-consuming about applying Opalescence Go.

How should Opalescence Go be used?

Opalescence Go  kits are available in two concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (10% and 15%). 

    -Store the kit in the refrigerator

    -Do not brush your teeth prior to wearing the trays

    -Wear the trays 10 minutes to one hour, based on your sensitivity.  Some people can wear them for an hour every day and not have sensitivity.  Some patients cannot.  Wear them for the length that you can (not longer than one hour) based on your sensitivity, or lack thereof.

If you are interested in a more individualized option, custom-made trays can be just for you and your mouth.  There are two bleach concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (20% and 35%) for you to manually place inside your tray prior to bleaching.  The bleach should be stored in the refrigerator and you do not need to brush your teeth prior to wearing the trays.  You may wear the trays up to one hour, similar to the bleach kits.  Be sure to thoroughly cleanse the trays after every application.