Opalescence hydrogen peroxide
Opalescence uses peroxide to break down stain molecules, with the formulation chosen for your teeth and gums.
The short answer
Opalescence whitening uses peroxide chemistry to break down stain molecules, and the right formulation depends on your teeth, gums, sensitivity, and existing restorations.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Hydrogen peroxide releases reactive oxygen that alters coloured organic molecules in enamel and dentin. Carbamide peroxide breaks down into hydrogen peroxide and urea. Neither agent whitens fillings, crowns, veneers, or implant restorations.
What can you do next?
Check the product concentration and instructions, keep gel away from the gums, and do not whiten over untreated decay, cracks, exposed roots, or active gum inflammation. Stop and arrange review for significant sensitivity or gum irritation.
When should you seek dental care?
Obtain dental assessment before whitening if one tooth is dark, teeth hurt, gums bleed, or you have extensive restorations. Persistent burning, ulcers, or sensitivity needs review.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask which Opalescence formulation and tray design fit your teeth, how restorations will match afterward, and how existing sensitivity or gum disease changes the plan.
Frequently asked questions
Can this symptom have more than one cause?
Hydrogen peroxide releases reactive oxygen that alters coloured organic molecules in enamel and dentin. Carbamide peroxide breaks down into hydrogen peroxide and urea. Neither agent whitens fillings, crowns, veneers, or implant restorations.
What is the first practical step?
Check the product concentration and instructions, keep gel away from the gums, and do not whiten over untreated decay, cracks, exposed roots, or active gum inflammation. Stop and arrange review for significant sensitivity or gum irritation.