Teeth Whitening: Costs, Types & What to Expect

Everything you need to know about Whitening in the UK. Compare treatments, understand costs and find a trusted practice near you.

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What Is Teeth Whitening?

Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that lightens the natural colour of your teeth. It uses a peroxide-based gel (either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) to break down stains on the tooth enamel, resulting in a brighter, whiter smile.

Teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dental treatment in the UK. It is safe when carried out by or prescribed by a registered dental professional.

Types of Professional Whitening

In-Surgery Whitening

Your dentist applies a high-concentration whitening gel directly to your teeth, often activated with a special light or laser. Results are visible immediately, with the full effect developing over a few days. A single session typically takes 60 to 90 minutes.

Take-Home Whitening Kits

Your dentist takes impressions of your teeth and creates custom-fitted trays. You apply a lower-concentration gel to the trays and wear them for a set period each day (usually 1 to 2 hours or overnight) over 2 to 4 weeks. Results build gradually.

Combination Treatments

Some dentists offer a combination approach: an initial in-surgery treatment for immediate results, followed by take-home trays to maintain and enhance the whitening.

Costs and What to Expect

Professional whitening in the UK typically costs between £200 and £600. Results vary depending on the original shade of your teeth and the type of staining. Most patients see an improvement of several shades. Temporary sensitivity is common during treatment.

Teeth whitening is not available on the NHS. It must be performed by or prescribed by a registered dental professional. Whitening carried out by beauty therapists, salon staff or anyone other than a dental professional is illegal in the UK and potentially dangerous.

Maintaining Your Results

Whitening results typically last 6 months to 2 years. Avoiding foods and drinks that stain (tea, coffee, red wine, curry), not smoking, and maintaining good oral hygiene all help prolong results. Top-up treatments every 6 to 12 months can maintain brightness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening in the UK typically costs between £200 and £600. In-surgery treatments using light or laser activation are at the higher end, while dentist-prescribed take-home kits usually cost £200 to £350. Prices vary between practices and regions.

No. Teeth whitening is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not available on the NHS. It must be carried out by or prescribed by a registered dental professional. Whitening offered by beauty salons or non-dental providers is illegal in the UK.

Results typically last between 6 months and 2 years depending on your diet, smoking habits and oral care routine. Consuming tea, coffee, red wine or dark-coloured foods can cause staining to return more quickly. Top-up treatments can maintain results.

Professional whitening supervised by a dentist is considered safe and does not damage tooth enamel. Some patients experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation during treatment, which usually resolves within a few days.

Results vary depending on the natural shade of your teeth and the type of staining. Most patients see an improvement of several shades. Your dentist can give you a realistic idea of what to expect during your initial consultation.

Whitening treatments only work on natural tooth enamel. Crowns, veneers and fillings will not change colour. If you have visible restorations, your dentist may recommend whitening your natural teeth first, then replacing restorations to match the new shade.

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