Opalescence® Boost Teeth Whitening

A pearly-white smile is beautiful to look at and can greatly improve self-confidence.  Many people are opting for the Opalescence^® Boost Whitening System for fast, safe and effective teeth whitening. Opalescence^® Boost combines the newest advances in dental technology with proven chemical formulas. This ensures that the bleaching experience is painless, and the results are satisfying.

There are many reasons why teeth become stained or discolored, including tobacco use, and drinking dark liquids such as red wine, coffee, tea and cola.  However, the natural aging process and prescription medication use can also cause yellowing and graying.

There are literally hundreds of whitening treatments available in the marketplace, including take-home strips, bleaching toothpastes and take-home whitening gels.  Many take-home gels are ineffective and may not elicit the desired results.

Opalescence^® Boost whitening has many advantages over these other treatments, including:

• Faster treatment times.
  
• Longer lasting results.
• No sensitivity.
• Removal of stains on crowns, veneers and other restorations.
• Safe procedure and treatment.
• Treatments are performed by an experienced professional.

It is important to seek advice from Dr. Polymeris prior to beginning a bleaching regime.  Women who are pregnant or lactating should not seek bleaching treatment.

How does Opalescence^® Boost whiten teeth?

Opalescence^® Boost is a bleaching process that lightens the dentin and enamel of the teeth.  Our whitening gels contains a hydrogen peroxide component (40%), which is the active ingredient in the gel.  When hydrogen peroxide is applied to the teeth, the peroxide component breaks down into tiny oxygen bubbles.  It is these bubbles that eliminate yellowing and staining.

Unlike most whitening systems, a LED light is not needed to activate the gel and expedite the whitening process.  The self-activating nature of the bleaching agent eliminates heat (and therefore sensitivity) on the surface of the teeth during the procedure.  The internal structure of the teeth remains completely healthy and intact during and after the treatment.

As with any whitening system, the post-treatment results can vary according to the degree of staining and the condition of the teeth.  A consultation with Dr. Polymeris prior to treatment will provide information as to what kind of results Opalescence^® Boost whitening can provide in specific instances.  The whitening gel is only applied to healthy teeth.  If tooth decay or gum disease is an issue, these need to be controlled before the bleaching treatment is performed.

Opalescence^® Boost whitening process:

Prior to treatment, there will be a consultation where Dr. Polymeris will outline the exact procedure.  On treatment day, a polish will be performed to rid the teeth of any debris and plaque.  Then, special eyewear will be provided to protect the eyes from the light and splashguards to protect the clothing from the bleaching agent.

Here is a brief overview of the Opalescence^® Boost whitening procedure:

1. Cheek retractors will be placed to expose the entire surface of the teeth.
2. The gums will be painted or covered to reduce sensitivity.
3. The dentist will apply the whitening gel to the teeth.
4. After the initial phase of bleaching (~15-20 minutes), the gel will be removed from the teeth and the mouth will be rinsed.
5. A fresh coat of gel will be applied to the teeth for one or two more phases of treatment.
6. During the second and third phase of bleaching, the gel will be left on the teeth for 15-20 minutes. 
7. The gel will then be removed for the final time and the mouth will be thoroughly cleansed.

What happens after treatment?

The same external factors that caused the discoloration in the first place can quickly work their way back onto the teeth.  For this reason, the dentist recommends flossing once a day, thorough cleaning with anti-sensitivity toothpaste twice a day and regular dental checkups/ cleanings.  These post-treatment measures will ensure that the smile stays at its whitest for a long time.

If you have questions about the Opalescence^® Boost Whitening System, please call the office and ask Dr. Polymeris.