How Much Is Teeth Whitening in the UK? A Complete Guide

Teeth whitening is one of the simplest and most popular methods to remove discolorations from the enamel. It lightens the dental stains accumulated over time, helping you obtain a bright smile.

This explains why this cosmetic procedure stands as one of the top industries in UK today. Whether you believe it or not, teeth whitening has an annual turnover of around £40 million.

However, before opting for this procedure, it is crucial to understand the associated costs. This blog aims to clarify that, besides other essentials of the same.

What causes tooth stains?

Several reasons contribute to stained teeth. The most common ones are:

·       Foods and drinks: Intaking cultured and spicy food items can give rise to yellow teeth. Also, drinks such as coffee, tea, wine, etc. are responsible.

·       Use of tobacco: Cigarette smokers and tobacco chewers have a high tendency of developing brownish teeth. It is due to the tar present in them.

·       Poor oral hygiene maintenance: Improper brushing and flossing cause plaque build-up over the teeth, with time. This can lead to stains and discolorations. 

·       Certain health ailments: Some diseases may affect the dental enamel, exposing the underlying dentine. Slowly, this gives rise to yellowish teeth.

·       Age: With passing time, the outer layer of dental enamel corrodes, revealing the dentine’s color from beneath.

·       Genetics: Some people have naturally thinner enamel than others. This can make their teeth appear yellowish.

Why choose teeth whitening?

Your smile is the first thing that people notice in you. Thus, maintaining a spotless healthy set of teeth is essential. Teeth whitening is a recent cosmetic dentistry approach that preserves your dental aesthetics and function.

In this, a special bleaching gel is applied on to the dental surface, which removes off stains to unveil the natural color of your teeth.

Let’s look at the benefits of teeth whitening. 

·       Boosts confidence: Stained teeth is often embarrassing, and may speak of poor oral hygiene. With teeth whitening, the stains can be conveniently removed.

·       Promotes youthfulness: A dull and discolored smile can make you appear older than your actual age. Teeth brightening treatment helps instantly lighten those discolorations.

·       Prevents future dental problems: Bacterial and plaque build-up gives a yellow look to the teeth. Additionally, it paves the path for cavities and subsequent dental issues. All these can be prevented with a teeth whitening treatment. It eliminates plaque, thus securing the wellness of your teeth.

Various professional dental whitening treatments are available in London; you can opt for any of them. This will ensure optimal safety and effectiveness of the procedure.  

Teeth whitening in UK: Types Explained

·       In-office teeth whitening: This is performed in a dental clinic. In this, the dentist applies a concentrated formula of hydrogen peroxide (bleaching agent) on the teeth. In-office teeth whitening generates rapidly visible results.

The general time span is one to two hours. This, however, depends on the extent of tooth discoloration. A single session is enough for the procedure.

Price: £300 - £700. You may expect higher costs for more sophisticated procedures like Enlighten and Zoom whitening,. This is because they combine upgraded approaches.

·       At-home teeth whitening (under professional supervision): Involves using personalized kits, specially recommended by dentists. They contain custom-fit dental trays, and a professional-grade whitening gel.

Offer similar results to in-office treatments; however, the time taken is more. Consistent use for three weeks is recommended.

Price: Cost is comparatively less, falling in the range of £200 -£400.

·        Over-the -Counter teeth whitening: These are commercial whitening products, involving whitening strips, toothpaste and special dental gels. Very convenient to use, however, there may be certain risks associated.

Time taken is usually longer than other whitening treatments and may range up to months.

Price: A minimal amount of £10–£50 is enough.

·       Natural Remedies: These involve using common household ingredients, such as, baking soda, lemon juice, activated charcoal, etc. However, they may not be as effective as other professional-grade treatments. Additional dental risks may be involved. For example: enamel erosion, gum irritation and tooth sensitivity.

Factors determining teeth whitening costs in UK

1.    Clinic’s location: Metropolitan cities like London will have higher treatment costs than other regions.

2.    Dental expertise: Cosmetic dentists who have several years of experience will charge more than general dental practitioners. 

3.    Type of whitening approach: In comparison to conventional whitening treatments, laser-induced procedures will have premium pricing. 

4.    Extent of discoloration: Excessive staining will require combined treatments and more than one session to achieve the desired results. This eventually raises the expenses. 

Other potential factors that can affect the treatment price

1.    Initial appointment: Many dentists charge an initial one-time fee for holding a dental consultation. In London, it varies around £50 and £150.

2.    Dental follow-ups and maintenance of results: Frequent touch-ups may be required to sustain the longevity of the treatment outcomes.

These particularly apply to those who are into heavy smoking and drinking. On average, such sessions range within £50 to £200.

3.    Prescription of aftercare products: Special dental care items like mouthwashes and toothpastes may be suggested post-treatment.

Thus, it is better to keep aside an amount of £10–£30 every month for treatment maintenance.

4.    Sensitivity treatments: In most cases after the treatment is over, individuals experience tooth sensitivity.

To ease such side effects, dentists may recommend desensitizing gels or toothpastes. The cost approximation is around £10 to £50.

5.    Refilling of whitening gel: Applies to at-home kits; requiring you to spend an amount between £30 and £60.

Is teeth whitening really worth the cost?

Teeth whitening is not just a method to brighten smile, it also helps maintain long-term dental health. It prevents bacterial invasion and cavities, minimizing costlier treatments down the line. Well, there are many other reasons too that explain the worthiness of the treatment. 

Compared to procedures like veneers, RCT, etc., teeth whitening is a much affordable solution to preserve dental well-being. If you consider the cost of obtaining root canal treatment (£500-£1,000), dental whitening is available in just within the range of £200-£600.

What to consider before obtaining teeth whitening treatment?

·       Evaluate your budget: This is the prime factor that you must consider before deciding on a teeth whitening treatment. At-home treatments (under dentist’s supervision) are the best if you want to obtain quality treatment at a reasonable price.

·       Research thoroughly about clinics: Take time to search for locally available private dental clinics. Obtaining multiple quotes can also come to help, especially while comparing the services.

·       Read previous patent reviews and testimonials: This will help you gain a detailed insight into the quality of treatment results and make a well-informed choice.

·       Educate yourself about the potential risks associated: Although teeth whitening does not cause much problem, some level of tooth sensitivity and gum irritation is common. You must prepare yourself well and discuss with your concerned profession in advance.

Conclusion

Teeth whitening treatment is one of the most reliable ways to obtain a healthy set of pearly whites. If you are in London, consider taking a personalized dentist appointment from any of your nearby clinics. This will help discuss the various options and associated costs beforehand. So, get ready to embark on a smarter choice for preserving your smile - book an appointment today.