What affects the price
There's no single UK price for whitening. Each practice sets its own. Things that can change the price include:
- the type of whitening, such as home trays or a laser visit at the surgery
- how many visits it takes
- whether you need other dental work first, such as a clean or a filling
- whether top-up gel or extra trays are included
Ask for the price in writing, and ask what it includes. Be careful with very low prices, especially if the provider isn't a dental professional.
Our guide price
Our price for teeth whitening is from £350. You can see it on our pricing page. Your dentist will confirm the price before you start. Any work needed first would be extra.
Why only a dentist can do it
In the UK, only registered dental professionals can offer or provide tooth whitening. That includes dentists. This is the law, as set out by the General Dental Council.
The reason is safety. Whitening gel can irritate gums and the inside of the mouth if it's used badly. The NHS says kits from pharmacies or online, and treatments in beauty salons, tend to work less well and can harm teeth and gums.
You can check that a dentist is registered on the General Dental Council register.
How whitening works
There are two common ways, says the NHS:
- At home. Your dentist gives you gel and custom-fitted trays. You wear them for roughly 2 to 6 weeks.
- At the surgery. A laser is used with the gel, in one visit of about 1 to 2 hours. Your gums are protected.
Your dentist will check your teeth and gums first.
Who whitening isn't for
The NHS says whitening is for adults. It isn't done for people aged 17 or under. It isn't suitable if your teeth or gums are unhealthy, or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
Whitening only lightens natural teeth. It doesn't change fillings, crowns, dentures or implants. This can leave them looking a different shade. Results vary, and we can't promise a certain shade.
Cheaper ways, and their limits
Whitening toothpastes and strips are sold in shops. They are not the same as dentist whitening, and results are usually small. A hygiene clean can also lift some surface stains from tea, coffee or smoking. Our hygiene page explains what that involves.
If you're thinking of a kit or a salon, ask yourself who's checking your teeth and gums first. A dentist looks for decay, gum disease and worn teeth before any gel goes on. That check matters, because whitening can make some problems feel worse.
Side effects, and how long it lasts
Teeth can get sensitive to cold or sweet food and drink. Gums or the throat can feel sore, and white patches can show on the gums. These usually pass soon. Tell your dentist if they bother you.
Results aren't permanent. With your dentist's aftercare advice, the NHS says they may last around 3 years.
Read more on our teeth whitening page. If you'd like to talk it through, you can book a visit.