Whitening strips, LED gadgets, charcoal toothpastes: the shelves and social media feeds are full of products promising a brighter smile. But do they actually work, and are they safe? Here is a friendly, no-nonsense look at how shop-bought whitening compares with professional treatment from your dentist.
Real whitening uses a bleaching gel, usually based on hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which breaks down stains inside the tooth. The strength of the gel, and how long it stays in contact with your teeth, makes a big difference to the result.
In the UK, products containing more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide can only be supplied by a dental professional. That means shop-bought kits are limited to very low strengths.
Whitening toothpastes: these mainly remove surface stains using mild abrasives. They can help keep teeth looking clean, but they do not change the natural colour of your teeth.
Strips and kits: at legal strengths, results are usually modest. One-size-fits-all trays and strips can also leak gel onto the gums.
Charcoal products: there is little evidence that charcoal whitens teeth, and some products are very abrasive, which can wear enamel over time.
Beauty salon whitening: whitening carried out by anyone other than a dental professional is illegal in the UK and can be unsafe.
Professional whitening starts with a check-up to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy, and whitening is suitable. We then take a scan or impressions to make custom trays that fit your teeth precisely, so the gel stays where it should and away from your gums.
At Castle Street, we offer two professional systems:
Some people notice mild, temporary sensitivity during whitening. Professional systems allow us to adjust the treatment and recommend products to keep you comfortable.
Whitening does not change the colour of fillings, crowns, veneers or bonding. If you have these on your front teeth, we will talk about the best order for treatment.
If you want a real, lasting change in the colour of your teeth, professional whitening is safer and far more effective than anything you can buy on the high street.
Members of our practice membership plan receive 50% off teeth whitening. Call us on 01494 527 971 to find out whether whitening is right for you.
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