Tooth Whitening

The active ingredient used in professional tooth whitening is hydrogen peroxide. In the UK, it is only legal for dental professionals to supply whitening products containing hydrogen peroxide, as it is the only ingredient that is clinically proven to whiten teeth effectively and safely.

Hydrogen peroxide works by penetrating the tooth and breaking down staining within the dentinal tubules. These are microscopic channels that run from the outer surface of the tooth towards the centre, and over time they become filled with staining from food, drink and lifestyle factors. Clearing this accumulated staining lightens the teeth and results in a brighter, whiter smile.

All whitening treatments are subject to dental examination to assess suitability for treatment – if any open cavities are present these will need attention prior to being able to be treated.  In clinic there are 2 home tooth whitening systems to choose from.

Two home professional tooth whitening systems are available. The most appropriate option is recommended following consultation, based on your natural tooth shade, alignment, staining pattern and desired level of whitening.

Custom-made tooth whitening trays

Tooth whitening using bespoke whitening trays is considered the gold standard in professional tooth whitening & is the method recommended for the majority of patients.  This system uses custom-made trays that are produced specifically for your teeth following impressions taken in clinic. The trays fit closely around the teeth, allowing excellent contact between the whitening gel and the tooth surfaces, which helps to achieve more predictable and even results.

The tooth whitening gels supplied are usually for nighttime wear, but on request, patients can request gels for use in the daytime.  This is particularly well suited to patients with darker teeth, more stubborn or resistant staining, teeth that are not completely straight or aligned, or those looking to whiten their teeth by more than 2 to 3 shades. Whitening is usually carried out overnight over a period of 2 – 4 weeks, allowing the gel to work gradually and effectively.

LED tooth whitening mouthpiece

Polalight is a newer at-home tooth whitening system that combines a professional whitening gel with an LED mouthpiece and does not require dental impressions. It has been designed to be comfortable, convenient and easy to use.

This option is particularly suitable for younger patients if they already have relatively light teeth, their teeth are well aligned and they are looking to brighten their smile by approximately 2 to 3 shades. Whitening is carried out during the day in short treatment sessions.

Both systems use clinically proven whitening formulations and include ingredients designed to help minimise sensitivity and support enamel health during treatment. Full instructions are provided, and suitability for each option is discussed during consultation to ensure safe and effective whitening.

Whitening products sold online or over the counter are not permitted to contain hydrogen peroxide. As a result, they rely on alternative ingredients that are either ineffective or, in some cases, potentially damaging to the teeth. Some non-prescription whitening products have been shown to significantly reduce the hardness and strength of enamel.

Hydrogen peroxide has an excellent safety profile and has been used in dentistry for over 50 years. When prescribed and supervised by a dental professional, tooth whitening is a predictable and safe treatment.

Tooth whitening can help improve:

• Yellow or darkened teeth
• Staining from tea, coffee, red wine or smoking
• General dullness or discolouration of natural teeth
• Uneven tooth colour

It is important to note that tooth whitening only lightens natural tooth structure. It does not change the colour of fillings, crowns, veneers or bridges. In some cases, existing restorations may need to be replaced after whitening to match the new tooth shade.

Tooth whitening is generally well tolerated. Some patients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity during or after treatment. This is usually mild and short lived and can be managed with desensitising products if required.

Many patients begin to notice visible improvements within the first few days of whitening. Results continue to develop over the course of treatment, with the final shade becoming apparent once the whitening process is complete.

Results vary depending on diet, lifestyle and oral hygiene habits. With good dental care and occasional top-up treatments where appropriate, whitening results can be maintained long term.