Opalescence Go brings teeth whitening to a whole new level. Unlike most whitening products, Opalescence uses UltraFit trays filled with whitening gel which optimizes tooth whitening (view on Amazon).
Wanting whiter teeth is very common. Whiter teeth can help to boost confidence as well as creating a younger look.
However, professional teeth whitening can be both expensive and time consuming. Home alternatives (such as whitening strips) are easily accessible, yet the lack of safety regulation means that there is no golden standard. Because of this, there are several products on the market which are simply ineffective.
This review covers everything that you need to know about the Opalescence Go products and whether they actually work.
Opalescence Go Pros and Cons
Pros
- Discreet, UltraFit trays
- Treatments range between 15-60 minutes
- More affordable than many other whitening products
- Choice of two flavors
Cons
- No size choice
Unlike other many methods of whitening, Opalescence Go is perfect if you’re on the go because the trays are clear and discreet. One of the stand-out features of Opalescence Go is the option of different flavors: mint or melon. This is a sure bonus, as very few whitening products offer this.
5 essential things you need to know about Opalescence Go
Before we get into the key aspects of the Opalescence Go range, there are a few key points that you should be aware of. Opalescence Go is a whitening system consisting of whitening trays. These trays carry the whitening gel, which comes in two main variants: 10% and 15%. All this means is that the 15% trays are stronger, and spend less time attached to your teeth.
1. Does Opalescence Go work?
With impressive reviews on Amazon, it is clear that Opalescence Go products are effective. Although they stick onto your teeth in a similar way to whitening strips, they’re actually very different (view details).
Each box comes with sets of 2 trays: one for your upper teeth and one for your lower teeth. These trays are like flexible mouth guards and contain a whitening gel which breaks down the discolored molecules in your teeth.
As the gel is in contact with the tooth for a prolonged period of time, the bleaching agent can seep right into the core of the tooth. This results in whitening from the inside out instead of just a superficial whitening that products like whitening toothpastes provide.
Their patented UltraFit technology means that they fit snugly and comfortably, and adapt to your unique smile. This helps to get an even coverage for maximum results.
2. Is Opalescence Go safe?
The active ingredient in Opalescence Go is carbamide peroxide. This breaks down into urea and, more importantly, hydrogen peroxide, which you will often find in many whitening gels used by dentists. Numerous studies have shown that when used properly, hydrogen peroxide is safe as well as effective.
The only potential side effects which have been noted are tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. However, Opalescence Go also contains both potassium nitrate and fluoride, which help to combat sensitivity.
3. How soon can you expect results?
How soon you’ll see results varies from person to person. Some customers report seeing a difference after their first tray session; some customers don’t see effects until a few days have passed. After sessions on five consecutive days, you should be able to notice that your teeth are looking considerably brighter. For a full treatment, wear the trays for ten consecutive days. Of course, how soon you can expect results also relies on proper use.
How to use Opalescence Go
- Place tray on the arch of your teeth. The trays should fit comfortably around the shape of your smile.
- Suck down or swallow. This helps it to attach properly.
- Remove the outer tray.
- Suck down or swallow again. Leave on for the time specified on the box (15-20 minutes for 15%; 30-60 minutes for 10%).
- Remove and enjoy your whiter smile.
4. How long will results last?
Whitening results can last several years. However, this is dependent on correct usage. To make your whitening last longer, avoid dark staining food and drinks such as coffee or red wine.
5. Is there something better?
If you have limited time, Opalescence Go is a whitening treatment that could be great for you. It’s easy to use whilst you’re on the go, with sessions starting from only 15 minutes. Furthermore, Opalescence Go is a good option if you struggle with sensitive teeth. The gel contains ingredients which help to fight tooth sensitivity, as this is a potential side effect of the whitening agent.
What’s in the box?
A standard Opalescence Go Whitening Kit includes:
- 10 upper trays
- 10 lower trays
Opalescence Go comes in two main variants: 10% and 15%. The only difference between the two is the percentage of hydrogen peroxide (active whitening agent) in the gel. This just means that the 10% should be left on for longer (30-60 mins total) than the 15% (15-20 mins total).
When ordering your Opalescence Go, you have the option of either mint or melon flavored kits. This simply changes the taste in your mouth, and does not affect how effective the trays are.
Ingredients
Opalescence Go products are both gluten free and kosher certified.
Active
Carbamide peroxide (breaks down into hydrogen peroxide)
Inactive
Potassium nitrate, fluoride (both used to combat sensitivity)
Extended Pros and Cons
The time per session varies from 15-60 minutes, depending on which variant of the Opalescence Go you have. This is a fairly standard time frame for home whitening products, with 15 minutes being on the shorter side. The price is again fairly average for home kits and considerably cheaper than your standard professional whitening treatment which can easily cost over $500.
The Opalescence Go range is sold with a one-size-fits-all tray, which may be frustrating if you have a particularly small or large mouth. Despite this, the UltraFit technology means that this one size should be ideal for most people.
Summary
Opalescence Go is a nifty little whitening system if you’re looking for something quick and easy. Weighing in on both the quicker and cheaper side edge of home kits, Opalescence Go great for those who want whiter teeth with little investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it need to be refrigerated?
The manufacturer does recommend refrigerating the product, but it is not required. Most people will find that just leaving the Opalescence Go out at room temperature will be perfectly adequate. However, if you’re in a particularly warm climate, it’s worth considering.
Does the kit work with braces?
The trays should fit over braces, but if you’re considering purchasing Opalescence Go you should consult your orthodontist before use. It’s important to note that the tooth surface under the braces will not be affected, so will result in a color mismatch when the braces are removed.
What do the percentages mean? Is one percentage better than the other?
The percentages simply state the percentage of peroxide contained in the gel. A higher number means more peroxide.
A certain percentage isn’t better than the other, but higher percentages should be used with caution if you have sensitive teeth and should be left on your teeth for less time than gels with a lower percentage. If in doubt, check the instructions that come with your pack – they should give you a good idea of how long to keep the trays on for.
Is the gel included in the trays or do I have to buy them separately?
The trays come ready-filled with gel, so you don’t have to worry about the separate components.
Do the included trays come in different sizes?
The trays come in one universal size.
Will my gums also turn white?
If the gel comes into contact with your gums for long periods of time you may experience some whitening of the area. This should only last for a short period and isn’t anything to be particularly worried about. If the white does not go away, it is best to consult your dentist.
Can you to upper and lower teeth at the same time?
Yes you can! It is the least time-wasting way to whiten your teeth. Thanks to the UltraFit technology, the trays fit comfortably on your teeth. This means that having two trays on at once shouldn’t be uncomfortable or difficult.
Can I buy the trays on their own?
No, the trays and gel come as one inseparable item.
Will it weaken my teeth?
The ingredients in the Opalescence Go should not weaken your teeth if the trays are used for the appropriate time. If you are concerned, it is best to consult your dentist.
Is it gluten free?
Yes – the gel is gluten free
Are the trays reusable?
The trays are disposable and are designed to be used once. Each tray comes with its own allocated gel, so once it’s been used that’s it.
Can you eat and drink with the trays in?
You should be able to drink water with the trays in. Avoid food until they have been removed.
Can I use it with crowns?
Opalescence Go should not affect crowns, so if you are worried about damage, this should not be an issue. However, the bleach may be ineffective on crowns and result in a color mismatch. If in doubt, it is best to consult your dentist first.
Is the gel supposed to be lumpy once I’ve removed the trays?
You may find excess gel in your mouth once you remove the trays. This is not unusual, and it’s common for this to be lumpy and taste odd. Simply spit it out and rinse mouth if required.
Should I use these in the morning or at night?
You can use Opalescence Go trays at any point of the day, as long as you have a spare 20 minutes or so.
However, if you have particularly sensitive teeth, you may wish to opt to use them at night. This is because sensitivity is aggravated by consuming hot or cold products like tea or ice cream. Using them before bed allows for the sensitivity to subside before eating and drinking.
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Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
I am using the 15% trays for the second time. I am so pleased with this product. I actually have custom trays from the dentist but because they are not as flexible as the Opalescence Go I don’t use them! I love the Go trays. They are so comfortable! While it says that the 15% is meant to be on up to 20 minutes, I would like to know how long they will continue to whiten if I leave them in longer.
I have the 15% as well I got from my dentist and just started using them today. But one of the the girls at my dentist said if it doesn’t bother me I can wear them up to 40-45mins.
My dentist also said I could leave them on 40-45 mins. However, I fell asleep and they were on for 2 hours. I was in so much pain! I had to breathe through my nose because my teeth hurt too much to have any air on them. I could barely eat and had to drink from a straw, to bypass my teeth. This went on for a FULL 3 days & nights. Be CAREFUL and learn from my mistake. Don’t over do it!
Can I use the trays twice a day for better results?
Could this product cause stomach trouble, do to being swallowed