Is teeth whitening safe?
Quick answer
Is professional teeth whitening safe?
Yes, when it is prescribed and fitted by a dentist on healthy teeth and gums.
York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet uses Boutique (from £425) and Enlighten (from £635) systems. Sensitivity is the usual side-effect and typically settles. Whitening will not bleach crowns or bonding, and it should not be used over untreated decay.
What you need to know
UK law restricts higher-strength whitening gel to dentists. That is why salon or online kits are a different product, not a cheaper version of the same treatment. Custom trays reduce gel on the gums.
We check for cavities, leaking fillings and gum inflammation first. Bleaching a tooth that needs a root canal is not a cosmetic win. Pregnant patients and under-18s are advised differently — we follow current professional guidance.
If your teeth hurt with cold after a course, pause and call us. See whitening in West Byfleet and our home vs in-practice comparison.
Care at York House Dental Practice
Welcoming new patients, families and emergency appointments from West Byfleet, Woking, Weybridge, and across Surrey.
Last reviewed: by Dr Kaveet Patel, Principal Dentist
