Coffee, tea, red wine, smoking and simply getting older all darken teeth. Drugstore strips help a little, but they are weak and one-size-fits-all. Professional whitening uses a stronger gel applied by a dentist who protects your gums, so you get a bigger change, faster, with less sensitivity.
We offer two options in our Glendale office. Opalescence Boost is done in the chair in about an hour. Custom take-home trays let you whiten gradually at your own pace, and they are complimentary for new patients who book the $59 exam and X-ray special and mention the offer.
Opalescence Boost In-Office Whitening
Opalescence Boost is a chemically activated hydrogen peroxide gel, so there is no heat and no light. The gel contains potassium nitrate and fluoride to reduce sensitivity and strengthen enamel while it works. We photograph your starting shade, place a cheek retractor and paint a protective barrier along the gums, then apply the gel for about 20 minutes. It can be repeated up to twice in one visit.
- Typically 3 to 8 shades whiter
- No anesthesia; drive yourself home
- Good before weddings, reunions and photos
Custom Take-Home Trays
We take an impression of your teeth and make thin, clear trays that fit only you. You wear them with whitening gel for the time we recommend each day. Because the trays hold the gel against the teeth and away from the gums, they work better than strips and cause less irritation. They are also handy for touch-ups after an in-office session.
Who Is a Good Candidate
Whitening works best on yellow or brown staining from food, drink, smoking and age on otherwise healthy teeth. Gray or purple tones respond less. Crowns, veneers and fillings do not change color, so if you have visible dental work on front teeth we will talk about keeping everything even. We do not whiten during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and decay or gum disease is treated first.
Keeping Teeth White
Results are not permanent, but with good habits many patients go a year or two before wanting a refresh.
- Have a cleaning first so the gel reaches the enamel evenly
- Go easy on coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco
- Brush twice daily, floss, and keep your six-month cleanings
- Use your trays for a touch-up when the shade drifts
What to Expect
- 1Exam and cleaning
We check for decay or gum problems and remove plaque so whitening works evenly.
- 2Shade photo
We record your starting shade so you can see the difference afterward.
- 3Protect and whiten
Gums are shielded, the gel goes on for about 20 minutes, up to two rounds.
- 4Rinse and reveal
The barrier comes off, teeth are rinsed, and we compare shades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will whitening make my teeth sensitive?
Some people feel brief sensitivity during or after treatment. The Opalescence Boost gel includes potassium nitrate and fluoride specifically to limit this, and the protective barrier keeps the gel off your gums. It passes quickly.
How long does in-office whitening take?
About an hour from sitting down to leaving. The gel itself is on for roughly 20 minutes per cycle, and we can do up to two cycles in the visit.
How white will my teeth get?
Most patients see a change of three to eight shades. The final result depends on your starting color and the type of staining. We show you the before-and-after shade so you can judge for yourself.
Can I whiten if I have crowns or veneers?
Yes, but only your natural teeth will change. If the dental work is on front teeth, we may suggest whitening first and then matching any new restoration to your brighter shade.
Does insurance cover whitening?
Almost never, since it is cosmetic. Costs are reviewed before treatment, and new patients who book the $59 special and mention the offer receive custom whitening trays and gel at no extra charge.
Brighter teeth by lunchtime
Call (623) 400-6009 or book online to schedule whitening.
