Just how safe are DIY teeth whitening products?

University study reveals that DIY teeth whitening products ‘can erode enamel and make teeth sensitive’Over recent years teeth whitening products sold by high street stores have become increasingly popular, but a study by experts at the University of Manchester Dental School has highlighted the risks of using these over-the-counter treatments. In their report, dentists warn that these treatments can damage the teeth’s enamel and even increase sensitivity.Teeth whitening treatments provided by dentists are based on hydrogen peroxide, a fully proven bleaching agent that by European law may only be administered by qualified dentists and other registered dental professionals.Writing in the British Dental Journal, the research team confirmed that dentist based teeth whitening products have 30-years of safety data, but they added that very little research had been done to prove that the over-the-counter products are safe.According to their research, the university experts tested five of the most popular teeth whitening products that are readily available from high street pharmacists and stores on freshly extracted teeth. Their findings suggested that they significantly reduced hardness and substantially damaged dental surfaces.Professor Damien Walmsley of the British Dental Association said: “Not all bleaching products are the same and not all bleaching products are safe.” He urged the public to undertake more caution in selecting bleaching and teeth whitening products they apply to their teeth. He also added: “The lack of clarity over chemicals used in over-the-counter and online teeth whitening products means you could be gambling with your teeth.”We at Carisbrook would endorse these findings and in addition, we would certainly warn people never to buy teeth whitening products online, from dodgy dealers or to risk their teeth at the unlicensed and unlawful teeth whitening clinics found in beauty, hair and tanning salons etc. Many of these unregulated products have been shown to include highly dangerous bleaching chemicals that can cause serious injury and damage not only to your teeth… but also to your lips, gums, tongue, mouth and general health.If you read our teeth whitening page you will see that before we prescribe any teeth whitening treatment we will carefully examine your teeth in order to determine the most appropriate treatments.We can also provide a range of different teeth whitening treatments depending on the health and condition of your teeth, your lifestyle and your expectations.So please, heed the advice contained in the university’s report. If you are considering teeth whitening treatment make sure you consult a qualified and registered dental practice. Right now if you speak to us at Carisbrook we are offering £100 OFF our Home Teeth Whitening Treatment Kits and you can be assured that all our teeth whitening products are fully tested and approved. To make an appointment you can call us on 0161 951 7295 or alternatively you can contact us by using the online form on our Appointments page.