Tooth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a form of dentistry and should only be carried out by a dentist or other regulated dentist, such as a dental hygienist or dental therapist, on the prescription of a dentist.

Some beauty salons offer teeth whitening, but if there is no dentist present, this is illegal and can put your oral health at risk.

You can also buy do-it-yourself teeth whitening kits at home, but these can also carry risks.

Teeth whitening is a generally safe cosmetic procedure. However, it is important to use the correct technique and product. In consultation with your dentist, you can get information about your individual situation and determine the most suitable teeth whitening method for you.

If you have had your teeth whitened, you will need to make several visits to the dental surgeon in a few months.

The dentist will take an impression of your teeth to make a mouth guard and tell you how to use it with a bleaching gel. Then, using your mouth guard at home, you apply the gel regularly over a set period of time for 2 to 4 weeks. Some whitening gels can be left on for up to 8 hours at a time, reducing the treatment time by up to 1 week.

Laser whitening, also known as power whitening, is another type of teeth whitening system that a dentist can provide. A whitening product is painted on your teeth and then a light or laser is shone on them to activate the whitening. Laser whitening takes about an hour.

Only go to a registered dental professional for teeth whitening, because whitening by unqualified persons, for example in beauty salons, is illegal. Home kits also carry risks.

Some home kits do not contain enough whitening product to be effective. Also, if a dentist is not performing the whitening process, the provided mouthpiece may not fit properly, so some of the bleaching gel may seep into your gums and mouth, causing blistering and sensitivity.

Teeth whitening in beauty salons by untrained personnel or personnel without a dental qualification puts your oral health at risk and is also illegal.