Q: How does tooth whitening really work? What causes tooth discolouration? 


Many factors affect tooth colour. Genetics is one factor; some people just have whiter teeth than others. Other factors include cigarette usage, dark foods and beverages (including coffee, soda, tea, and red wine), age, medications (such as tetracycline), and tooth trauma.


How does teeth whitening work?


Opalescence whitening gels contain an active whitening ingredient—either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Active oxygen molecules from the whitening agent are able to pass through the enamel of the teeth, where they react with and neutralize the discoloured molecules that cause tooth discolouration. The active oxygen molecules spread, whitening the entire tooth. A brighter, whiter smile is the result.

Q: Will whitening cause tooth sensitivity?


Tooth sensitivity can occur as a result of whitening. If sensitivity occurs, it is temporary and typically disappears within a few days after the completion of whitening treatments. Desensitizing treatments can be used to help treat or prevent sensitivity if it occurs.


Q: How long do whitening results last?


Teeth whitening results are very stable, leaving your patients with a stunning smile long after treatment is over. However, there are a few factors that can make teeth lose their brightness. Things like diet and certain habits (like smoking) may affect the length of whitening results. Fortunately, touch-up treatments are quick and easy, helping your patients get that bright, white smile back.

Q: Who can whiten?


Almost anyone can successfully whiten their teeth. Opalescence whitening is effective at treating discolouration caused by age, food and drink, cigarettes, medication, or tooth trauma. Patients of all ages can whiten—from teenagers to 90-year-olds.

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Ultradent™ Opalescence Go™ Teeth Whitening Treatment
Ultradent™ Opalescence™ PF Teeth Whitening Treatment
Ultradent™ Opalescence™ Boost™ In-Office Power Whitener

Q: How does tooth whitening really work? What causes tooth discolouration? 


Many factors affect tooth colour. Genetics is one factor; some people just have whiter teeth than others. Other factors include cigarette usage, dark foods and beverages (including coffee, soda, tea, and red wine), age, medications (such as tetracycline), and tooth trauma.


How does teeth whitening work?


Opalescence whitening gels contain an active whitening ingredient—either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Active oxygen molecules from the whitening agent are able to pass through the enamel of the teeth, where they react with and neutralize the discoloured molecules that cause tooth discolouration. The active oxygen molecules spread, whitening the entire tooth. A brighter, whiter smile is the result.

Q: Will whitening cause tooth sensitivity?


Tooth sensitivity can occur as a result of whitening. If sensitivity occurs, it is temporary and typically disappears within a few days after the completion of whitening treatments. Desensitizing treatments can be used to help treat or prevent sensitivity if it occurs.


Q: How long do whitening results last?


Teeth whitening results are very stable, leaving your patients with a stunning smile long after treatment is over. However, there are a few factors that can make teeth lose their brightness. Things like diet and certain habits (like smoking) may affect the length of whitening results. Fortunately, touch-up treatments are quick and easy, helping your patients get that bright, white smile back.

Q: Who can whiten?


Almost anyone can successfully whiten their teeth. Opalescence whitening is effective at treating discolouration caused by age, food and drink, cigarettes, medication, or tooth trauma. Patients of all ages can whiten—from teenagers to 90-year-olds.

Related Products