
Teeth Whitening
Teeth Whitening is a cosmetic procedure that has been increasingly popularized by the media. For those with healthy teeth and good oral hygiene, teeth whitening can be a great way to lift stains and brighten a smile. Schedule a 15 minutes initial exam and consultation to find out more about this treatment option, and to determine whether this procedure would be safe or effective for you.
Opalescence In-Office Chair side Whitening in Under 2 Hours

Opalescence is an industry leader when it comes to effectively whiten your teeth. This in-office system contains 40% hydrogen peroxide and utilizes a viscous composition that provide sustained peroxide release to achieve maximal results. The system also includes desensitizers to help minimize sensitivity and protect your enamel. This dentist-supervised, in-office procedure is safe, effective and clinically proven to whiten up to eight shades—for a brighter, whiter smile in just one office visit.
Opalescence Take-Home Maintenance Whitening Kit

"The secret was the viscosity of the Opalescence teeth whitening gel.
Dr. Fischer knew it needed to have a sticky, viscous composition for the gel to stay in place and provide sustained peroxide release for superior whitening results.
Opalescence teeth whitening gel’s distinctive viscosity keeps the gel in place, allowing the peroxide to enter your enamel and do its job."
Teeth Whitening FAQs
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I am experiencing pain, how do I make an appointment?"Severe pain in a tooth is considered a dental emergency, and should be examined by a dentist as soon as possible. First, try texting us (510)701-2520. During normal business hours, give us a call at (510)834-4321, and we will make every effort to schedule you for a same day appointment. During your appointment, a diagnostic exam and localized X-rays may be necessary.
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Do you offer discounts for patients without dental insurance?In order to address the problems with dental coverage, we have started our own in house dental membership plan! For a low monthly membership fee, all of your preventive care needs are covered. Learn more.
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Do you accept Denti-Cal or HMO?We are a PPO and pay per service office, and do not accept Denti-Cal or HMO plans at this time.
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Do I have to make an appointment to be seen?Yes! Please make an appointment by emailing us at info@lakemerrittdental.com, or by calling (510)834-4321. Carrier pigeons are not always accurately received. Walk-ins and emergencies may be seen on a case by case basis, however, we strive for efficiency in our scheduling and may not always be able to make same day appointments.
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How long is a new patient appointment?All new patient appointments will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, the appointment will include a thorough dental exam, x-rays, and hygiene care and further instruction.
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Which specialists are available at Lake Merritt Dental?We have a staff of 3 general dentists, 2 hygienist, and an entire team of dental professionals equipped with over 20 years of professional expertise to provide you with the safest and most reliable services. We specialize in emergencies, medical complications, prosthodontics, endodontics, orthodontics, implantology and oral surgery. Between our skilled and experienced doctors, we are able to take on the vast majority of cases. In rare situations, a dental emergency may require resources not readily available at our office. These cases may still be referred to our local trusted colleagues.
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Why is there a fee for last minute appointment cancellations?Your reserved appointment requires careful treatment room preparation and guarantees the time of your dentist, their assistants, and the patient care coordination team. In order to maintain the quality and efficiency that we strive for, we require that appointment changes be requested at least 2 business day in advance to allow for sufficient time to offer another patient that appointment time. Failure to do so may incur a cancellation charge of $75.
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Do you accept X-rays from my previous dentist?Yes. We can accept X-rays from a prior dental visit with another practice that have been taken within the last 6 months. Digital files are preferred, and can be sent to info@lakemerrittdental.com. X-rays are critical diagnostic tools, and are necessary as a part of your comprehensive dental exam. X-rays older than 6 months may not accurately reflect your current state of oral health, and may misguide the doctor from proper diagnoses of potential current problems.
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Can you bill my medical bill?Yes and no. Medical billing for dentistry is a tricky arena, but for emergency patients and patients with medical complexity, billing your medical insurance is definitely an option we can provide. To check for eligibility, please give our office a call to schedule an initial consultation, remember to bring your medical insurance card with you. However, we are not affiliated with Medicare or Medical, any HMO medical insurance require a physician's referral, but we can help you take care of it if you decide to proceed with your treatments with us.