Teeth whitening gels: use, safety and costs
Originally published
Whitening gels can lighten natural teeth, but choosing a product involves more than looking for the strongest concentration. Your dentist should assess your teeth and gums, discuss the result you hope for and explain how to use the treatment safely.
Whitening is optional. Natural tooth shades vary, and a healthy smile does not have to be bright white.
How do whitening gels work?
Many gels contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These ingredients act on the compounds responsible for discolouration, making teeth appear lighter. They do not whiten crowns, veneers or fillings in the same way, so visible restorations need to be considered in the plan.
The response depends on the cause of the discolouration and the treatment used. More gel, a higher concentration or longer contact time does not automatically mean a better result and can increase the risk of irritation.
Start with an assessment
Decay, gum disease, cracks or unexplained sensitivity should be assessed before whitening. Professional cleaning may be helpful if there are deposits or surface stains; a full package of cleaning treatments is not automatically needed by everyone.
Cosmetic peroxide whitening is for adults aged 18 and over. Whitening is also not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Discuss your circumstances with your dentist rather than choosing a product from an online recommendation.
In the UK, tooth whitening treatment requires assessment by a registered dentist and their prescription. A home kit supplied through your dentist is a professional option, with instructions and follow-up. It is not equivalent to selecting an unassessed gel online by its brand or strength.
Using a dentist-provided home kit
Fitted trays hold the gel against your teeth. Your team should show you how much gel to place, how to insert the trays and how to remove excess gel without spreading it onto the gums.
The wearing time, number of days and storage requirements depend on the product. Do not assume that every gel can be worn overnight or that every course lasts one or two weeks. Follow the instructions for your prescribed kit, and do not put whitening gel into an unrelated retainer or other tray without checking with your dentist.
Do not add petroleum jelly or another barrier as a general home remedy unless it is part of the instructions for your treatment. Protection used during in-surgery whitening is chosen and applied by the dental team.
Sensitivity and irritation
Teeth may become sensitive, and gel reaching soft tissues can irritate the gums. These effects can occur even with professional care. If discomfort develops, pause the treatment and ask your team for advice about the product, tray fit and schedule.
Do not continue through significant pain in the hope of a faster result. Severe or persistent pain, pain in one tooth, swelling or worsening symptoms need assessment. Our guide to whitening and sensitivity explains this further.
What do the different options cost?
Our current listed options are:
- Home whitening gels only: £180. This is not a complete tray kit.
- Home whitening tray kit: £300.
- In-surgery LED whitening: £400.
- Enlighten whitening with custom trays: £550.
The latest Enlighten system we offer does not require an additional in-surgery whitening appointment; the older protocol did. Assessment and any agreed reviews still apply.
These are separate options, not charges that should automatically be added together. Ask which is suitable and exactly what is included in your estimate. See our dental treatment fees.
The Enlighten manufacturer states that it guarantees Vita shade B1 and does not require a white diet. Ask your dentist how its guarantee and maintenance advice apply to you. It is not a promise that one course keeps your teeth the same shade for life or prevents sensitivity.
For instalment options, read the current finance terms; eligibility and approval conditions apply. Contact us to discuss whitening or replacement gel for an existing prescribed kit.