Crook Log Dental Practice Q&A’s on Teeth Whitening

29th January 2016

Teeth Whitening

Questions & Answers

Facts & Statistics from the BBC News September 2015.

As dental professionals we are continuously being asked questions about teeth whitening:

Is it safe? Why can I get it done elsewhere a lot cheaper? Is it legal to get it done by a non dental professional?

The British Dental Association (BDA) says whitening is perfectly safe if, carried out by a registered dental professional. The BDA warns anyone else won’t have the right training or knowledge and could cause permanent damage to your teeth and gums.

Under the Dentists Act 1984, it is illegal for anyone other than dentists or dental health professionals such as hygienists to carry out teeth whitening.

For example, if the mouth-guard containing the bleaching gel does not fit properly some of it may leak and cause painful chemical burns. In extreme cases, people have been sick after swallowing the bleaching product. The BDA says beauticians aren’t properly trained to take a medical history to make sure someone is suitable for teeth whitening.

Is that actually illegal?

The GDC said: “The Dentists Act makes it illegal for anyone who is not a dentist to give ‘treatment, advice or attendance’ that would usually be given by a dentist. Handing an individual a tooth-whitening tray and advising them on application, amongst other things, could constitute the giving of ‘advice or attendance’ and would be illegal.

So why are home kits allowed? Are they safe?

While only dental professionals can provide a teeth-whitening service, it is perfectly legal for anyone to treat themselves with an over-the-counter kit, provided it contains less than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide. A dentist though can legally use 6% hydrogen peroxide and some home kits do not contain enough whitening product to be effective.

Here at Crook Log we offer 2 types of whitening which are safe for all our patients – In surgery and Home Whitening.

1st step – Have a dental examination with your dentist within the last 6 months to make sure your teeth and gums are fit and healthy.

2nd step – Discuss Whitening with your dentist and decide which whitening procedure suits you best.

3rd step – Complete your whitening treatment.

4th Step – Now you’re ready to show off your pearly whites!

For more information please call us on 0208 303 3838

 

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39 Dartford Rd, Dartford, Kent DA1 3EG

Areas we serve include Dartford, Crayford and surrounding areas

When to visit

We have early opening hours!
Mon - Thurs 8:15am - 5:30pm
Friday 8:15am - 1:45pm
Saturday 9:00am - 1:45pm (appointment only)

By Bus: Bus numbers 96 and 428 stop directly outside the practice.
By Car: There is ample street parking nearby.