Opalescence
Opalescence teeth whitening is a system provided by Ultradent products inc.
Opalescence has a range of products which can improve the color of teeth. They provide in office, home and on the go products. The options are outlines below:
Take home
This allows the whitening of teeth at home in a convenient way at your own pace. The Opalescence Take Home Whitening Gels can only be bought from the dentist, your local dental practice should be able to provide you with it, and can run you through the treatment. The primary ingredient is a viscous gel which sticks to the teeth and it generally contains Potassium Fluoride, this helps to keep teeth healthy by reducing sensitivity, stronger prevention of cavities and increasing the strength of teeth's enamel.
There are varying levels of strength available with these teeth whitening gels. From 10% to up to 35% hydrogen peroxide. Results can be seen after only one night, although it may be required to wait up to a week to see results. The gel comes via a bleaching tray which is customized from an alginate impression made by the dentist of your mouth. There are three flavors available; melon mint and standard.
On the go
Opalescence also offers Opalescence Trèswhite Supreme, this provide preloaded trays which fit over the teeth. They are disposable so whitening can occur any where. This solution contains 10% hydrogen peroxide and should show results in approximately one week. This formulation contains potassium nitrate and fluoride, which have many oral health benefits.
In office (Dental)
The primary requirement for an in office tooth whitening solution is that no extra equipment be required. Opalescence provide a solution call Opalescence Boost, it is ideal for in office as it is activated chemically. No heat or ultraviolet rays of light are required for activation. The active ingredients are potassium nitrate and fluoride. It has a distinct red color this allows for simple application and removal.
After care
Opalescence also provides whitening toothpaste, these help maintain a white smile by being less abrasive that competing toothpastes and having a relatively high fluoride uptake than alternatives. Toothbrushes provided include Opalescence Smilebrushes, Jr. Smilebrushes and Oral Hygiene Brushes. Their main properties include easy to hold and soft bristles with a variety of colors. They also provide OpalPix which are specialist toothpicks which don't break or produce splinters unlike wooden alternatives, the surface of the toothpick has texture improving cleansing and they massage gums due to their specific contours.
Ultradent
Ultradent is the company behind Opalescence. It was founded by Dr. Dan Fischer, and was born from a desire to improve the products which were available to dentists at the time. He first developed Astringedent® in 1979. Ultradent now manufactures over 500 instrument, devices and materials, which are distributed on a worldwide basis. Ultradent holds many patents and trademarks on its products. It is certified to for the marketing of products for teeth under ISO9002 for Europe and it also meets FDA requirements in the USA.