Opalescence Whitening: Give Your Smile a Boost
Opalescence Xtra Boost is a conservative and minimally invasive way to treat discolored teeth, compared to crowns and veneers. With Opalescence Xtra Boost, discolorations caused by prescription medications (tetracycline), tooth trauma and other conditions – not to mention everyday living (eating and drinking certain foods and beverages, and smoking) – can be effectively removed in your dentist's office.
Opalescence Xtra Boost is a 38 percent hydrogen peroxide power bleaching gel that relies on chemistry for achieving its effects. Therefore, a special light is not needed to activate the whitening process. Praised for the sticky viscosity of the bleaching gel – which keeps it in place on the teeth to be whitened – Opalescence Xtra Boost also contains a patented component called PF, a mix of potassium nitrate (which reduces the risk of sensitivity associated with tooth whitening) and fluoride (which strengthens enamel and reduces the risk of cavities).
The In-Office Xtra Boost Teeth Whitening Procedure
The in-office Opalescence Xtra Boost whitening procedure can take between one to two hours, depending on the extent of tooth discoloration you have and the whitening results you hope to achieve. Before your whitening appointment, you will likely be scheduled for a thorough tooth cleaning.
To begin the whitening procedure, your gums and lips will be protected, and the starting shade of your teeth determined and recorded. Then, the dentist or dental assistant will apply the Opalescence Xtra Boost whitening gel to the front of your teeth, where it will remain for between 10 to 15 minutes. Approximately every five minutes, the gel on your teeth will be stirred to ensure maximum whitening.
After 10 to 15 minutes, the dentist or dental assistant will remove that application of gel using suction only, then rinse your teeth with water and dry them.
The Opalescence Xtra Boost gel then can be applied for up to five more 10- to 15-minute sessions, depending on the whitening results desired.
Maintaining Opalescence Whitening Effects
Most treated teeth continue to whiten for between 12 and 24 hours after treatment. However, to ensure that your teeth realize their whitest potential, your dentist may provide you with a take-home whitening system, such as one of the dentist-supervised Opalescence Take Home Bleaching Systems, that can be used until your teeth stabilize to their final color. Then, it will be important to practice good oral hygiene habits and remember to brush after consuming staining food or beverages in order to maintain the beauty of your new, white smile.
Opalescence Teeth Whitening Cost and Things to Consider
The cost of Opalescence teeth whitening varies depending on your unique considerations, the dentist providing treatment and the location of the practice. On average, Opalescence whitening costs approximately $500 and treatment lasts one to two hours. Dental insurance does not typically offset the cost of cosmetic treatments.
Some patients may experience post-whitening tooth sensitivity. If this occurs, the dentist may provide a potassium nitrate gel that can be used in a customized tray until the condition subsides.
Next, go to:
[Updated May 27, 2010]
Hot Topics
-
OraVerse
Reverse lingering numbness after dental treatment. -
Dry Mouth
Is your dry mouth temporary or a chronic problem? -
Dental Insurance
Is your cosmetic dental care covered? -
Tooth Implant
Your functional and esthetic solution to missing teeth.
