Professional teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments in London. It is a safe, effective way to brighten your smile when carried out by a qualified dentist. Here is what you need to know before booking, including tips to maintain results and the risks of unregulated whitening.
Teeth whitening is not something that should be left to beauty salons or shopping mall kiosks. In the UK, it is illegal for anyone other than a registered dental professional to perform teeth whitening. Unqualified operators may use incorrect concentrations of bleaching agents, which can cause irreversible damage to tooth enamel and severe chemical burns to gums.
At Pure Smiles in Fulham, all whitening treatments are carried out by qualified dentists who assess your oral health before starting, ensuring the procedure is both safe and effective.
Our preferred system is Enlighten, the only teeth whitening system that guarantees results. The treatment combines customised take-home trays with an in-surgery whitening session to deliver consistent, long-lasting brightness.
| Feature | Enlighten Professional Whitening | Over-the-Counter Products |
|---|---|---|
| Guaranteed results | Yes | No |
| Custom-fitted trays | Yes | One-size-fits-all |
| Supervised by dentist | Yes | No |
| Enamel-safe concentrations | Yes | Variable |
| Lasting results | Months to years with maintenance | Days to weeks |
| Suitability assessment | Full dental check first | No assessment |
Whether or not you opt for professional whitening, these daily habits will help keep your teeth looking their best.
Electric toothbrushes are significantly more effective at removing surface stains and plaque than manual brushing. Brushing at night is particularly important as it removes stains before they have time to bond to your enamel overnight.
Toothpastes that claim to “whiten” teeth do not change the underlying colour of your enamel. However, those containing baking soda are effective at removing surface stains. Ask your dentist for a recommendation suited to your needs rather than relying on marketing claims.
Healthy gums have a pink, firm appearance that frames your teeth beautifully. Inflamed, red gums make teeth look less attractive regardless of their shade. Regular hygiene appointments at Pure Smiles keep both teeth and gums in optimal condition.
Crunchy whole foods such as celery, apples, broccoli and carrots act as natural exfoliants, gently scrubbing surface stains before they can set. Including these in your diet is a simple way to support a brighter smile between dental visits.
Certain foods and drinks stain teeth more than others. The most common include:
You do not need to eliminate these entirely, but being aware of their staining potential helps you manage your habits.
Drinking through a straw reduces the amount of staining liquid that contacts the front surfaces of your teeth. This is a practical tip for drinks like cranberry juice, iced coffee or cola.
Yes. Professional whitening at Pure Smiles includes a thorough assessment of your tooth sensitivity before treatment begins. Desensitising gels and adjusted protocols ensure that patients with sensitive teeth can still achieve excellent results comfortably. This is not something that over-the-counter kits can offer, as they do not account for individual dental conditions.
Teeth whitening is not suitable for everyone. Your dentist may advise against it if you have:
A consultation at Pure Smiles will determine the most effective approach for your specific situation.
Professional whitening costs vary depending on the system used. At Pure Smiles, we offer options to suit different budgets. Book a complimentary consultation to receive a personalised quote. Call 020 7736 6276.
With the Enlighten system and good maintenance habits, results can last from several months to years. Touch-up treatments using your custom trays help maintain brightness over time.
No. In the UK, teeth whitening by non-dental professionals is illegal. Unregulated treatments risk enamel damage, gum burns and inconsistent results. Always choose a GDC-registered dentist.
Whitening agents do not change the colour of existing restorations. Your dentist can advise on the best approach, which may involve whitening natural teeth first and then replacing visible restorations to match the new shade.
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For professional teeth whitening in Fulham, contact Pure Smiles to book your complimentary consultation. Call 020 7736 6276 or visit us at 257 New Kings Road, SW6 4RB.
