Opalescence is a well-known brand in the teeth whitening industry. It offers various products with different strengths and forms to help patients achieve a brighter smile. The main active ingredient in Opalescence products is carbamide peroxide, which breaks down into hydrogen peroxide when it comes into contact with saliva, gradually lightening the teeth.
Types of Opalescence Products and Their Uses
Opalescence Trays
Opalescence offers custom-fitted trays for at-home whitening. These trays are made by taking an impression of your teeth at the dentist’s office. The process starts with the dentist placing a putty-like material in a tray that fits over your teeth. You bite down on it, and it captures the exact shape of your teeth and gums. Once the impression sets, it’s sent to a lab where they create a clear, thin tray that hugs your teeth perfectly.
To use the trays with Opalescence gel
First, clean your teeth thoroughly by brushing and flossing. This removes any food particles and plaque that could interfere with the whitening process.
Shake the Opalescence gel syringe well. This ensures that the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Dispense a small amount of gel, about the size of a pea, into each tooth well of the tray. Be careful not to overfill, as excess gel can spill onto your gums and cause irritation.
Insert the tray into your mouth, making sure it fits snugly over your teeth. Press gently to spread the gel evenly across the tooth surfaces.
Wear the tray for the recommended time. This can vary depending on the concentration of the gel. For lower concentrations like 10% carbamide peroxide, you might wear the tray overnight (usually 8 – 10 hours). Higher concentrations, such as 15% or 20%, are typically worn for shorter periods, like 1 – 2 hours per day.
After the time is up, remove the tray carefully. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to get rid of any remaining gel.
Clean the tray with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Rinse it well and let it air dry before storing it in its case.
Opalescence Go
Opalescence Go is a more convenient, ready-to-use option. It comes with pre-filled trays. These trays are disposable and don’t require any custom fitting.
Open the package and remove the tray. The tray will already have the appropriate amount of Opalescence gel inside.
Insert the tray into your mouth, positioning it over your teeth. The trays are designed to fit most mouths comfortably, but you may need to adjust it slightly to ensure good contact with all your teeth.
Wear the tray for the specified time, which is usually around 1 – 3 hours. The time can depend on the specific product within the Opalescence Go line.
When the time is complete, take out the tray and discard it. Rinse your mouth well with water. Since these are disposable, there’s no need to clean them.
Before You Start Using Opalescence
Consult Your Dentist
It’s crucial to visit your dentist before starting any Opalescence whitening treatment. Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to make sure you’re a good candidate. They can check for any cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues that need to be addressed first. If you have sensitive teeth, your dentist can recommend the best Opalescence product for you, perhaps suggesting a lower concentration or a product with added desensitizing ingredients.
Oral Hygiene
As mentioned earlier, good oral hygiene is essential before and during the whitening process. Make sure you brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This helps to keep your teeth clean and healthy, and it also allows the whitening gel to work more effectively.
During the Whitening Process
Sensitivity Management
Many people experience some degree of tooth sensitivity during teeth whitening with Opalescence. If you start to feel sensitive, there are a few things you can do. First, you can try using a desensitizing toothpaste. Brush your teeth with it before and after wearing the Opalescence trays. Some versions of Opalescence gels also contain ingredients like potassium nitrate or fluoride to help reduce sensitivity.
If the sensitivity becomes too uncomfortable, you may need to reduce the wearing time of the trays or take a break from the treatment for a few days. Always let your dentist know if the sensitivity persists or gets worse, as they can offer additional solutions.
Monitoring Your Results
Keep an eye on how your teeth are changing as you use Opalescence. You can compare your teeth to a shade guide that your dentist provides. This will help you see the progress of the whitening. Remember, results may not be immediate. It can take a few days or even weeks of regular use to notice a significant difference, especially if you have deep or stubborn stains.
After the Whitening Treatment
Maintaining Your Results
Once you’ve achieved the desired level of whitening with Opalescence, you’ll want to keep your teeth looking their best. Avoid consuming foods and drinks that are known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries, as much as possible. If you do consume these, rinse your mouth with water right away or drink through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
Continue to practice good oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist may also recommend occasional touch-up treatments with Opalescence to maintain the whiteness.
Post-Treatment Care
After you stop using Opalescence, your teeth may still be a bit sensitive for a short time. Keep using the desensitizing toothpaste if needed. If you notice any unusual changes in your teeth or gums, like persistent pain, swelling, or discoloration, make an appointment with your dentist promptly.
Tips for Using Opalescence Effectively
Follow the Instructions Exactly
The instructions that come with your Opalescence product are there for a reason. Don’t try to use more gel than recommended or wear the trays for longer periods thinking it will speed up the process. This can increase the risk of side effects like sensitivity and gum irritation.
Be Consistent
For the best results, use Opalescence as directed on a regular schedule. Skipping treatments or using it sporadically will make it take longer to see the desired whitening.
Store Properly
Keep your Opalescence products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps to maintain the effectiveness of the gel. If the gel is exposed to heat or light for too long, it may break down and not work as well.
Conclusion
Using Opalescence teeth whitening products can be an effective way to achieve a brighter smile. Whether you choose the custom trays or the convenient Opalescence Go option, following the proper steps, taking care of your teeth during and after the treatment, and consulting with your dentist will help you get the best results while minimizing the risk of side effects. With a little patience and proper use, you can enjoy a more confident, whiter smile.
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