Are Teeth Whitening Gels Safe? Everything You Need to Know

If you’re looking to whiten your smile without making major changes to your existing teeth, such as having porcelain veneers, you might be wondering: are teeth whitening gels safe?

In the UK, tooth-whitening products are subject to legal restrictions on the concentration of hydrogen peroxide they contain or release. Products containing or releasing no more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide may be supplied directly to consumers, provided they comply with applicable product-safety requirements.

Products containing or releasing more than 0.1% and up to 6% hydrogen peroxide are subject to additional legal requirements. They must be supplied in accordance with the relevant dental-treatment framework, including an examination and prescription by a registered dentist before use.

For this reason, if you are considering professional whitening, the safest approach is to have your teeth and gums assessed by a registered dentist and to use a professionally prescribed system.

At Sensu, we provide restorative and cosmetic dentistry from our London-based clinics and we’ve helped thousands of patients enjoy brighter, more confident smiles. We’re home to a mutli-discplinary team who can guide and advise you on the best treatments, including professional teeth whitening.

If you’re wondering how to identify if a teeth whitening gel is safe, and the best way to achieve whiter teeth without compromising on safe, oral healthcare, keep reading. All of the information in this blog is backed by our team of experts, so you can be sure you’re receiving genuine insights.

Is Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Gel Effective?

Tooth-whitening products supplied directly to consumers in the UK may contain or release no more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide. They therefore generally have less bleaching potential than products prescribed through a dental practice.

Some people may notice a difference when using these products, but the extent of whitening can be limited by the low concentration of hydrogen peroxide.

Whitening toothpastes work differently. Rather than substantially changing the intrinsic colour of the teeth, many are designed mainly to remove or reduce external surface staining through polishing or abrasive ingredients.

Overuse of some more abrasive whitening toothpastes may contribute to tooth wear or sensitivity. Use dental products according to the manufacturer’s instructions and speak to your dentist if you have concerns.

Are Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Gels Safe?

Tooth-whitening products that are lawfully supplied in the UK must comply with applicable product-safety requirements and should generally be safe when used as directed.

However, a purely at-home product may be used without a prior dental examination. Conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, exposed roots, cracks, defective fillings or existing sensitivity may affect whether whitening is appropriate.

A dentist can assess your teeth and gums before treatment, identify problems that may need attention and recommend an appropriate whitening plan.

Can You Buy Teeth Whitening Gels Online?

You can buy some tooth-whitening products online, but take care when purchasing from unknown or unverified sellers.

Products sold online may not comply with UK requirements. They may contain an inappropriate concentration of hydrogen peroxide or other ingredients that could irritate or damage the teeth, gums or other soft tissues.

Check the product’s ingredients, hydrogen-peroxide concentration, supplier and instructions. Products containing or releasing more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide should not simply be supplied directly to consumers for cosmetic tooth whitening. They require the appropriate dental pathway, including a dentist’s examination and prescription.

A low price does not necessarily indicate that a product is suitable or compliant. Using an inappropriate product may increase the risk of tooth sensitivity, gum irritation or other adverse effects.

Treat unusually positive reviews and claims with caution. Products containing or releasing no more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide generally have less bleaching potential than professionally prescribed products.

For more noticeable whitening, speak to your dentist about the options available.

At Sensu, we use Boutique Whitening, a professional whitening system supplied through a dental practice. Your dental team can assess your suitability, prescribe an appropriate product and provide guidance during treatment.

Who Can Legally Provide Tooth Whitening?

Tooth whitening is considered the practice of dentistry in the UK.

Before whitening with products containing or releasing more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide, a registered dentist must examine the patient and prescribe the treatment. The dentist must also ensure that the treatment is appropriate and that relevant instructions and safeguards are in place.

After the required examination and prescription, treatment may be carried out by the prescribing dentist or, where permitted by the applicable legal and professional requirements, by another appropriately registered dental professional working within their scope of practice and under the required arrangements. This may include a dental hygienist, dental therapist or clinical dental technician, depending on the circumstances.

The precise responsibilities of each professional can depend on their registration category, scope of practice, the treatment prescribed and the arrangements in place. If you are unsure, ask the dental practice who will examine you, who will prescribe the treatment and who will provide it.

Beauticians and other people who are not appropriately registered dental professionals cannot lawfully provide tooth whitening as a dental treatment. Be cautious of anyone offering professional whitening outside a registered dental practice or without the required dental examination and prescription.

You can check whether a dental professional is registered with the General Dental Council using the GDC register.

Professional Tooth Whitening vs Online Tooth-Whitening Gel

One important difference between products supplied directly to consumers and professionally prescribed systems is the concentration of the active whitening ingredient.

Products supplied directly to consumers may contain or release no more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide.

Products containing or releasing more than 0.1% and up to 6% hydrogen peroxide may be used within the appropriate dental-treatment framework, following the required examination and prescription by a registered dentist.

At the maximum concentrations, 6% hydrogen peroxide is 60 times the concentration of 0.1% hydrogen peroxide. This comparison refers only to concentration; it does not mean that treatment will produce results that are 60 times greater.

Professionally prescribed systems may also use carbamide peroxide, which breaks down gradually and releases hydrogen peroxide. For example, Boutique by Night is available in 10% and 16% carbamide peroxide formulations. Product availability and specifications can change, so confirm current details with your dental practice or the manufacturer.

Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide work by breaking down stain-causing molecules, often called chromogens, within the tooth. This can lighten the tooth’s overall shade. Whitening does not change the colour of fillings, crowns, veneers or other tooth-coloured restorations.

Below is a quick comparison of professional teeth whitening vs over-the-counter:

Professional Teeth Whitening With Sensu

• Contains up to 6% hydrogen peroxide (whitening agent)
• Dental health assessment to check for any cavities or gum problems first
• Personalised treatment plan based on your needs and case
• Expert advice and guidance for peace of mind
• Custom-made whitening trays for added comfort and less irritation
• Choice between Boutique B1 Guarantee or Boutique By Night – if you choose Sensu for teeth whitening
• Complimentary Boutique by Night whitening kit with Invisalign and fixed braces

Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening

• Can only contain up to 0.1% hydrogen peroxide
• No dental health assessment beforehand, so cavities or gum problems may go unnoticed
• Generic, one-size-fits-all treatment that isn’t based on your individual needs
• No access to support of guidance throughout treatment
• Standard-sized trays that may not fit your mouth and jaw as comfortably
• Limited to the whitening gel and treatment options available with your chosen brand
• No complimentary whitening kit included with orthodontic treatment

Choosing a Professional Whitening Gel

There are lots of teeth whitening brands on the market, but at Sensu, we use Boutique Whitening gel.

Boutique offers several professional whitening formulations. Your dentist can recommend an option based on your dental health, preferences and suitability.

With Boutique by Night, you whiten your teeth at home, usually while sleeping, using a carbamide-peroxide gel. The gel gradually releases hydrogen peroxide, which breaks down stain-causing molecules and can lighten the shade of the teeth.

When you choose Sensu for qualifying Invisalign or fixed-brace treatment, you may also receive a complimentary Boutique by Night whitening kit. Eligibility, availability and terms should be confirmed with Sensu before treatment.

Boutique also markets a B1 Guarantee system for suitable patients seeking a B1 shade. According to the manufacturer’s current information, this system uses a 16% carbamide-peroxide overnight formula and includes twice the amount of gel supplied with its regular kit.

The guarantee is subject to the manufacturer’s eligibility criteria, treatment protocol and terms. It should not be understood as a promise that every patient will achieve a particular shade. Your dentist can advise whether the system is appropriate for you.

Are Teeth Whitening Gels Safe? Everything You Need to Know

If you’re wondering whether tooth-whitening gels are safe, the key points are:

• Products supplied directly to consumers in the UK may contain or release no more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide.
• Products containing or releasing more than 0.1% and up to 6% hydrogen peroxide require the appropriate dental-treatment pathway, including examination and prescription by a registered dentist.
• Tooth whitening is the practice of dentistry and should not be provided by beauticians or other people who are not appropriately registered dental professionals.
• A dental examination can identify problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, cracks, exposed roots or existing sensitivity before whitening begins.
• Results and side effects vary, and whitening does not change the colour of fillings, crowns, veneers or other restorations.
• Products bought online from unknown or unverified sellers may not comply with UK requirements. Check the product’s concentration, ingredients, supplier and instructions before using it.

At Sensu, we use Boutique Whitening Gel to help patients enjoy a brighter, more confident smile. With a dental health assessment, unlimited advice and support, and custom-made trays for extra comfort, you can experience unrivalled results from home.

Book your complimentary consultation (worth £350) below to get started.