Teeth whitening has gained a lot of popularity over the past three years and it doesn’t seem to be showing any sign of stopping! With social media influencers promoting products online and reality shows like Love Island presenting the ‘perfect’ smile, it’s no surprise that Google searches for whitening remedies are skyrocketing. But the problem is, not everyone is turning to professionals for these types of treatments. While the wave of home-remedy alternatives might reduce your initial investment, advice from the General Dental Council (GDC) insists teeth whitening should always be carried out by a registered dental professional.
At one80 Dental, our patients can safely try teeth whitening through our Boutique Whitening products. Diet, lifestyle and age can all take their toll on the shade of our teeth and we understand the difference a brighter, whiter smile can make to your confidence. We want to make you feel your best self, without any risks or damage to your health.
Starting with an initial consultation, our dentists will assess the health of your teeth and gums, before taking a 3D digital scan of your teeth which will then create a custom mouthguard (known as ‘trays’). A second appointment will show you how to apply the gel to the trays, leaving you feeling confident when completing the process in the comfort of your own home.
By opting for a Boutique Whitening kit from one80 Dental, you’ll be provided with a cost-effective solution which is safe, reliable and long-lasting, without the risk that comes from using cheap online and unregulated products.
Here is a list of some of the most common non-professional home teeth whitening solutions you can find online and the risks that come from using them:
Charcoal toothpaste
Often considered the cheapest teeth whitening option, charcoal toothpaste has solidified its place on supermarket shelves. Charcoal as an ingredient may have some health benefits, but using it on your teeth on a daily basis can wear down your enamel and cause tooth sensitivity. This method not only increases your risk of gum irritation, but also limits the potential to whiten your teeth in the future.
DIY whitening kits
We have seen a worrying wave of purchases of mass-produced whitening kits. The risk, as explained by the NHS, shows how the mouthguard in these kits causes leakages of the whitening fluid onto the gums, which can lead to irritation. These kits are also promoted as an add-on for purchase when visiting a beautician, which is an illegal practice. As well as this, DIY kits will rely on colour theory to neutralise yellow teeth stains with purple formulas, meaning results will not be as long-lasting or effective.
Whitening strips
Whitening strips offer an easier home solution to teeth whitening. European Committees Regulations only allow high levels of hydrogen peroxide, the chemical that bleaches the teeth in the whitening process, in products administered by registered dental professionals. Products with a dosage over 0.1% cannot be sold in the UK. Strips will then either use this ineffective dosage or use an alternative that is weaker and unregulated.
Prateek Akhoury, our dental surgeon, says: “We completely understand why people might want to improve the appearance of their teeth with whitening, especially as calendars are filling up with summer social events. But it’s important to remember that these procedures should only be carried out by a professional using appropriate and safe methods.
“We have the facilities to deal with any underlying issues beforehand, to ensure your teeth whitening results are the best they can be, without any risk to your health.”
With all of this in mind, by choosing professional home whitening at one80 Dental, you will gain not only our excellent customer experience but peace of mind that your teeth can look their best, safely.
To arrange the first consultation about your teeth whitening journey, get in touch with us on 0114 350 3180 or send us a message on Whatsapp at 07751 929604. You can also use our Contact Us page.
