Cosmetic dentistry
Teeth whitening, done properly
Whitening is one of the most popular treatments we offer, and one of the most misunderstood. Professional whitening, prescribed and supervised by a dentist, is safe, it works, and the results last. It starts with a proper check that whitening is right for you.
- Dentist-prescribedprofessional whitening gel
- Custom traysmade for your teeth
- £399.95teeth whitening
About whitening
Why professional whitening is different
Prescribed, not bought off the shelf
In the UK, tooth whitening is a regulated procedure. Only dentists and their supervised teams can carry it out, and the concentration of whitening agent that makes a real, lasting difference is only available through them. Over-the-counter strips and pastes use much lower concentrations, and produce minimal, short-lived results at best. Some are genuinely harmful to enamel.
Professional whitening also starts with an assessment. Before we prescribe anything we check the health of your teeth and gums, note any existing crowns, veneers or fillings (they will not whiten, which matters for planning), and make sure whitening is the right treatment for you.
Sensitivity
Some people feel mild sensitivity during treatment. It is normal and temporary, and we will advise you on managing it or adjust your regime if needed. Custom-fitted trays reduce the risk considerably compared with generic strips. If you already have sensitive teeth, we may recommend a gentler approach. The final shade depends on your natural tooth colour and the staining you have, and we will give you a realistic expectation at your consultation.
Whitening as part of a wider plan
Whitening is often the first step in a wider smile plan, and the sequence matters: whiten first, then match any bonding or veneers to the new shade. We will advise on the right order. If whitening is all you want, that is absolutely fine too.
How home whitening works
Trays made for you, gel you use at home
Most patients notice a difference within the first few days, and the trays are yours to keep for top-ups.
01 · Assess
A check first
We look at your teeth and gums, note any restorations that will not whiten, and confirm whitening is right for you.
02 · Scan
Trays that fit exactly
Digital scans of your teeth are used to make trays that fit your mouth precisely, which keeps the gel where it should be.
03 · Whiten
At home, for two to four weeks
You wear the trays with professional-strength gel for about an hour a day or overnight, depending on the shade you want.
04 · Maintain
Top up when you need to
Keep your trays and refresh the result whenever it fades, which makes it a cost-effective long-term investment.
Common questions
What's the difference between professional whitening and kits bought online?
The concentration of whitening agent that makes a real, lasting difference is only legally available through dental professionals in the UK. Over-the-counter products use much lower concentrations and produce minimal, short-lived results at best. Professional whitening also starts with an assessment and uses custom-made trays that fit your mouth exactly, which reduces sensitivity and gives more even results.
Is whitening safe? Will it damage my enamel?
Professional whitening, prescribed and supervised by a dentist, is safe and well evidenced. Some people feel mild, temporary sensitivity, which we will advise on and can adjust for. The risks come from poorly fitting generic trays and illegal high-concentration products used by unqualified practitioners, which is why we only offer dentist-led treatment.
How long does whitening last?
It varies with your diet, lifestyle and natural tooth colour, but professional whitening typically lasts considerably longer than over-the-counter alternatives. Because your trays are yours to keep, you can top up the result whenever you need to.
Can I whiten if I have crowns, veneers or fillings?
Existing restorations will not respond to whitening: they stay the same shade while your natural teeth lighten. We flag this before treatment begins, because it matters for planning the right sequence. We will always be upfront about what whitening will and will not achieve for you.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Luke Hutchings (GDC 80772), 14 October 2026.
