A message from The Old Stables Dental Practice
You may have seen the recent BBC investigation exposing the shocking scale of illegal tooth-whitening procedures being carried out across the UK. The programme revealed that gels containing more than 500 times the legal limit of bleaching agent are being used—often by hairdressers, beauticians, or self-titled “cosmetic technicians” who have no dental training whatsoever.
The findings are alarming, but sadly not surprising for those of us who see the consequences first-hand. Whitening gels containing 53% peroxide are not beauty treatments—they are chemical burns waiting to happen. When untrained individuals apply these substances, the risks are extreme:
- Burned and ulcerated gums (chemical burns)
- Pulpitis—painful inflammation inside the tooth
- Enamel damage or even fracture
- Severe sensitivity that can make it painful to drink cold water
These are injuries we continue to treat in dentistry—injuries that are entirely preventable. They are precisely why strict UK regulations exist, and why tooth whitening is, by law, restricted to dentists and dental professionals working under prescription.
What does the law actually say?
Under UK legislation, tooth whitening is considered an act of dentistry. That means:
- It is illegal for anyone other than a qualified dental professional to carry it out.
- Whitening products containing more than 6% hydrogen peroxide can only be provided under a dentist’s supervision.
- Patients must be clinically assessed first to ensure their teeth and gums are healthy enough for whitening—an essential safeguard that protects from long-term damage.
These laws are not there to spoil anyone’s fun. They are there to keep people safe. Only a dental professional can identify underlying issues like decay, cracks, gum disease or exposed roots—all of which can make whitening unsafe or even dangerous.
Choose safety, expertise, and results you can trust
If you are considering whitening, please do so wisely. Your smile—and your long-term dental health—are worth protecting.
At The Old Stables Dental Practice, all whitening treatments are carried out by qualified dental professionals who will:
- Assess your teeth and gums to ensure whitening is safe
- Provide legal, regulated, and clinically proven whitening gels
- Offer flexible whitening options you can use by day or overnight, depending on your lifestyle
- Support you throughout your treatment to achieve a natural, beautiful, healthy result
Spread the word: illegal whitening is not worth the risk
Please share this knowledge with friends and family. Many people simply don’t realise that non-dental whitening is illegal—or that the risks can lead to permanent and painful problems.
If you’d like safe, effective, professional whitening, or if you’re concerned about a whitening treatment you’ve had elsewhere, we’re here to help.
Contact The Old Stables Dental PracticeLet us help you whiten your smile safely, beautifully, and professionally.
