Teeth whitening

What teeth whitening is for

You might consider having teeth whitening if your teeth have become stained or darker. This can happen because of:

• getting older
• regularly having drinks that can stain teeth, such as coffee, tea or red wine
• smoking

Teeth whitening is not permanent, but if your follow your dentist's advice the effect may last for around 3 years.

It's not done if you're 17 years old of younger, or you have unhealthy teeth or gums. It's also not recommended if you:

• are pregnant or breastfeeding
• have crowns, dentures or implants – teeth whitening can only lighten the colour of natural teeth

Where to get teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is not available on the NHS. You have to pay for it as a private patient at a dental surgery.

Using a kit from a dentist, or having it done at a dental surgery, is the safest way to have teeth whitening.

The chemicals used in the treatment are very strong and should only be used or sold by dental professionals who know how use them safely and protect your teeth and gums.

What happens during teeth whitening

Teeth whitening can be done using a kit bought from a dentist that you use for a few weeks, or with a laser at a dental surgery, which is quicker and more effective.

The dentist should check your teeth and gums are healthy before you try teeth whitening, to make sure the treatment's right for you.

Teeth whitening with a kit you use at home

A dentist can prescribe a kit which contains a whitening gel and small trays which are made to closely fit around your teeth, like a mouthguard.

You'll usually have an appointment to check the trays fit your teeth well, explain how often to wear them, and be shown how to protect your gums during the treatment.

You then wear the trays at home for around 2 to 6 weeks to gradually whiten your teeth.

Teeth whitening with a laser at a dental surgery

Teeth whitening at a dental surgery involves covering your teeth in a whitening gel then shining a laser onto them. It's faster and more effective than using gel on its own.

Before the treatment, a soft shield or paste is used to protect your gums and you may be given dark or coloured glasses to protect your eyes. Laser whitening is usually done in 1 appointment which takes around 1 to 2 hours.

Side effects of teeth whitening

Teeth whitening by a dental professional uses strong chemicals which may cause side effects. These include:

• teeth becoming sensitive to cold or sweet food and drink
• sore gums or throat
• white patches on your gums

Your dentist should use a soft shield or paste to protect your gums during treatment, but you may still get side effects for a short time. Talk to your dentist if you have any side effects that bother you.