Are you looking to brighten your smile? Perhaps, your teeth are slightly discolored and you are considering tooth-whitening options. If your teeth are discolored due to aging, medications, coffee, soda, wine, etc… you have two options: in-office tooth whitening, or at-home tooth whitening.
Both options use peroxide-based bleaching agents. In-office tooth whitening products contain 30%-43% peroxide; whereas, at-home teeth whitening products contain only 5%-20%. The higher the percentage of peroxide, the quicker you will see your desired results.
Stains on your teeth can be either extrinsic or intrinsic. Extrinsic stains are the stains that you see on the surface of your teeth. At-home whitening products can remove some of these types of stains; however, they cannot remove intrinsic stains. Intrinsic stains are found in the microcracks of your enamel and in the underlying dentin. These are the stains that cause your teeth to look discolored from years of use.
Opalescence gel is safe for your teeth because it contains potassium nitrate and fluoride. The potassium has been shown to reduce sensitivity and the fluoride helps to reduce cavities and strengthen enamel. This system allows me to choose from four different concentrations, and three flavors so I can be sure you get your desired results! It’s also quick…your optimal natural whiteness will typically take 7-10 days with an average wear time ranging from 15-60 minutes.
If you choose the Opalescence tooth whitening system, I will take impressions of your teeth and make custom trays specifically formulated for you. The Opalescence system is actually a gel so it will not affect your surrounding gum tissue. Your treatment plan will detail the number of days and length of time each day that you will wear them over your teeth.
If you would like to additional information, please call (301) 530-2212 and schedule an appointment with me.