Opalescence 20% Instructions: How to Use & FAQs

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A bright, dazzling smile can work wonders, not only enhancing our physical appearance but also boosting our self-confidence. With an array of teeth whitening products in the market, it can be overwhelming to find one that combines efficacy, safety, and convenience. However, amidst this sea of choices, one brand has managed to shine brightly with its remarkable results: Opalescence Teeth Whitening Kit.

If you are one of those who have purchased Opalescence 20% Whitening Kit, you may be troubled about the right way to use it. As with any dental product, understanding the correct usage is crucial to achieving the desired outcome and maintaining oral health. Missteps in the application can lead to less than desired results and even negative outcomes.

In the rest of this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Opalescence 20% Whitening Kit. Also, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions by people who have purchased on of Opalescence products. Whether you’re a first-time user or someone seeking to refresh your knowledge about this whitening treatment, we have got you covered.

Opalescence Teeth Whitening Kit

Opalescence is a renowned brand under Ultradent Products Inc., known for its professional-grade teeth whitening products that are recommended by dentist worldwide. Opalescence product line come in various formats, including in-office whitening treatments, at-home custom-fit tray-based systems, and convenient prefilled disposable trays, among other products. Here’s a closer look at some of the key Opalescence products:

  1. Opalescence PF: This is a take-home whitening gel meant for use with custom-made dental trays. The PF stands for “Potassium Fluoride,” ingredients that help minimize sensitivity and strengthen enamel. The gel is available in various concentrations (10%, 15%, 20%, and 35%) and flavors. Opalescence PF is the most popular product among individuals looking for a convenient and cost-effective solution as it is designed for home use. However, it requires the use of custom-fitted trays that are worn over the teeth.
  2. Opalescence Go: These are prefilled disposable whitening trays. They offer convenience and ease of use, making them great for touch-ups or on-the-go whitening. The hydrogen peroxide concentrations available are 10% and 15%.
  3. Opalescence Boost: This is an in-office whitening treatment administered by dental professionals. It features a 40% hydrogen peroxide gel for fast, powerful whitening results.
  4. Opalescence Tooth Whitening Toothpaste: This toothpaste helps maintain the results of a whitening treatment and provides anti-cavity benefits.
Opalescence PF Teeth Whitening Kit

All of Opalescence employ the power of of carbamide peroxide, a proven bleaching agent, to diminish stains and disoloration on the surface of your teeth. The teeth whitening results can vary depending on several factors, including the type of staining, the health of the teeth, and the Opalescence product used.

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Instructions for Opalescence 20%

Opalescence 20% Teeth Whitening Kit is Opalescence PF with a 20% concentration of carbamide peroxide.

The 20% concentration is a popular choice among individuals who desire a moderate level of teeth whitening and is recommended by dentists to those with mild to moderate teeth discoloration or sensitivity concerns. The 20% concentration strikes a balance between effectiveness and reduced risk of sensitivity compared to higher concentrations.

  1. Consultation with Dentist: Before starting any teeth whitening treatment, consult with a dentist or dental professional to assess your oral health and determine if Opalescence 20% is suitable for you. Depending on the severity of the staining, you may require anything from a Opalescence 10% to a professional teeth whitening treatment in the clinic
  2. Making of Custom Trays: If using a custom-fitted tray system, your dentist may take dental impressions of your teeth to create personalized trays that fit your mouth accurately. Note that custom trays are not retainers.
  3. Clean Teeth: Prior to application of Opalescence 20%, ensure that your teeth are clean by brushing and flossing thoroughly. This helps remove any plaque or debris that may interfere with the whitening process.
  4. Apply Opalescence Gel Squeeze a small amount of Opalescence 20% gel into the reservoirs of the custom-fitted trays. Use a pea-sized amount for each tooth in the tray, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent coverage.
  5. Wearing of Trays: Carefully insert the trays over your teeth, making sure they fit snugly and that the gel is in contact with the surfaces you want to whiten. Remove any excess gel that may come into contact with your gums.
  6. Treatment Duration: Follow the recommended treatment duration as advised by your dentist or specified in the product instructions. Typically, Opalescence 20% is worn for 2 to 4 hours per session. Avoid wearing the trays for longer than instructed to prevent tooth sensitivity or irritation.
  7. Cleaning Up: After removing the trays, thoroughly rinse your mouth and brush your teeth to remove any residual Opalescence gel. It is important that you clean thoroughly as prolong exposure of the gel to your teeth and gum can cause chemical burn. Clean the trays with a toothbrush and cool water, ensuring they are properly sanitized for the next use.
  8. Regular Use of Opalescence 20%: For optimal results, use Opalescence 20% consistently as directed by your dentist. Most treatment regimens span several weeks, but the duration may vary depending on your desired level of whitening and the severity of tooth staining. As a general rule of thumb, each teeth whitening treatment should not last more than a month.

If you experience tooth sensitivity or any adverse reactions during the process, stop using the product as the cause is likely overexposure to the whitening gel. Rest for at least a day before resuming the whitening treatment.

Remember, this is a general guide, and it is crucial to consult with your dentist or dental professional for personalized instructions based on your dental condition and specific goals. They can provide you with detailed guidance and ensure that Opalescence 20% is used safely and effectively to achieve the desired results.

FAQs for Opalescence 20% Teeth Whitening

Here are some frequently asked questions about Opalescence 20% Teeth Whitening:

Question 1: What is the difference between Opalescence 20%, Opalescence 10%, or Opalescence 35%?

Answer: The difference lies in the concentration of bleaching agent carbamide peroxide. Opalescence of a higher concentration can achieve better results at the expense of causing teeth sensitivity. Opalescence 20% is a moderate concentration and is suitable for individuals with mild teeth discoloration

Question 2: Can Opalescence 20% remove all types of stains?

Answer: The answer is no, Opalescence cannot remove all stains. While the teeth whitening product can remove most common type of stains such as those cause by coffee, tea, tobacco, it does little on stains that originate from within the tooth. These include stains that are caused by the consumption of medications or dental conditions. It is best to consult with your dentist to determine if Opalescence is effective for you.

Question 3: How long to leave Opalescence 20% on my teeth?

Answer: Generally, you should apply Opalescence 20% once everyday for about 2 to 4 hours. However, the exact duration can depend on your dentist’s advice and your personal comfort level.

Question 4: How long should I use Opalescence 20% to see visible results?

Answer: The timeframe for noticeable results can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the stains. Some people may see improvements within a few days, while others may require several weeks of consistent use. Typically, most individuals will see results after 2 weeks of consistent daily application. If you do not see any visible results after prolonged use of Opalescence 20%, consider using higher concentrations such as Opalescence 35% or in-clinic teeth whitening treatments.

Question 5: Is Opalescence 20% safe to use?

Answer: Opalescence 20% is safe when used as directed. All Opalescence teeth whitening products, including in-office and take home kit, have undergone rigorous testing to ensure it meet the standards set by the American Dental Association (ADA). However, it is essential to follow the instructions provided and consult with your dentist before starting any teeth whitening treatment. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing dental conditions or sensitivities.

Question 6: Can I use Opalescence 20% if I have sensitive teeth?

Answer: Opalescence 20% is formulated with a lower concentration of whitening agents to help minimize tooth sensitivity. However, if you have known sensitivity issues, it’s advisable to consult with your dentist before using any teeth whitening product, including Opalescence 20%. Alternatively, you may want to start off with Opalescence 10% which have a lower concentration and is less harsh to your teeth.

Question 7: How long do the whitening effects of Opalescence 20% last?

Answer: The longevity of whitening effects can vary from person to person and depends on factors such as oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and lifestyle choices. To ensure a long lasting effect of your teeth whitening treatment, avoid the consumption of stain-causing drinks, maintain good oral hygiene, and go for regular dental checkup.

Question 8: Can I use Opalescence 20% if I have dental restorations like dental crowns?

Answer: Opalescence 20% is designed to whiten natural teeth and may not have an effect on dental restorations. It’s important to note that teeth whitening treatments generally do not change the color of dental restorations. If you have dental restorations that are visible when you smile, it’s best to consult with your dentist to discuss any potential mismatch in tooth color after whitening.

Question 9: Can I sleep with Opalescence 20% in my mouth?

Answer: Opalescence 20% is not recommended for overnight wear due to its higher concentration of active ingredients. It’s usually suggested to be worn for 2-4 hours. For comparison, Opalescence 10% is recommended to be worn for 6 to 8 hours while Opalescence 35% should only be used for up to 3 minutes

Question 10: Can I eat or drink while wearing the Opalescence 20% trays?

Answer: You should not consume any food or drink while wearing your custom fitted trays and undergoing teeth whitening. Eating or drinking could displace the trays and affect the effectiveness of the treatment.

Question 11: What should I do if I experience tooth sensitivity?

Answer: Some sensitivity during teeth whitening is normal and expected, especially for Opalescence products with a higher concentration. However, if you experience severe or prolonged sensitivity, stop using the product and consult your dentist. They might recommend using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth or adjusting the frequency or duration of your treatment.

Question 12: Can I use Opalescence 20% more than once a day to whiten my teeth faster?

Answer: Using Opalescence 20% more frequently than the recommended frequency will not necessarily whiten your teeth faster. In fact, it may increase the risk of tooth sensitivity due to over exposure to the whitening gel. It is best that you adhere to the once a day instruction as advised in the product packaging.

Question 13: How should I store my Opalescence 20% gel and custom trays?

Answer: Store the gel in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. The custom trays should be cleaned after each use and stored in a clean, dry place. Do not store the gel in the refrigerator or freezer, as it can alter the consistency of the product.

Question 14: What should I do if I accidentally swallow some of the Opalescence 20% gel?

Answer: If you swallow a small amount of the Opalescence gel, it is typically not harmful. However, if you swallow a large amount, or if you feel unwell after swallowing some of the gel, contact a healthcare professional immediately.

Question 15: Can I use Opalescence 20% whitening gel past its expiration date?

Answer: All Opalescence products have an expiration date. It is high encouraged that you do not use any Opalescence products past its expiration date, including Opalescence 20%. The effectiveness of the gel may be reduced, and it may not provide the desired results.

If you have any doubts, always consult with your dentist to ensure that you are suitable for teeth whitening treatments, be it professional in-clinic treatments or take-home whitening kits.

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Takeaway

Opalescence 20% offers a practical and efficient way to achieve a brighter, whiter smile from the comfort of your own home. By following the proper instructions for using Opalescence 20%, you can maximize the potential of this teeth whitening kit and achieve the desired results.

That said, you should always consult your dentist to ensure that you are suitable for the use of Opalescence teeth whitening products.

Lastly, keep in mind that teeth whitening isn’t a one-time procedure. To maintain your bright new smile, continue with good oral hygiene practices, consider touch-up treatments as suggested by your dentist, and make lifestyle choices that promote healthy teeth.

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