Over the counter teeth whitening products may be effective and convenient but they do not provide the same quality of treatment available at a Leeds dentist. Furthermore, there is a chance that if used incorrectly you could damage some of the soft tissue in the mouth because of the concentrated nature of the hydrogen peroxide in the whitening gel.

Teeth whitening has existed for many years but it is only really in the last ten that is has become so widely used. The aim of whitening teeth is to restore their natural lighter colour that is lost over time, as we get older. Whiter teeth can therefore make us look younger and more healthy, as well as offering a more attractive smile. Discoloured or stained teeth can be stained white as the peroxide seeps into the enamel and stains it white. This is achieved by placing the active gel in special trays so that they are in contact with the teeth. Shop-bought rays will not be specially designed or fitted like surgery treatment, so are often not as effective. They are also not as safe as trays made and fitted by the dentist himself. Dentists will also use the necessary safety equipment to protect the lips, teeth and lining of the mouth so that it does not come into contact with the peroxide.

Dentists can also prepare trays to take home and use with a less concentrated gel. This means that treatment will be both safe and convenient. Although shop bought whitening kits may be slightly cheaper, the quality is worse than treatments used by trained professionals so Leeds dentists recommend you always have teeth whitened in the surgery.