Teeth Whitening: Professional Treatments vs. Over-the-Counter Whitening Strips – Which is Best for You? - Ferndale House Dental Practice (2025)

A bright, white smile is something many of us desire, and with a wide range of teeth whitening options available in the UK, it can be difficult to know which method is best. From professional whitening treatments at your dentist to over-the-counter whitening strips, each option has its pros and cons. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between these methods and help you make an informed decision.

1. Professional Teeth Whitening with a Dentist

How It Works:
When you opt for teeth whitening at a dental practice, the treatment is carried out by a qualified dental professional using highly effective whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The process begins with a thorough consultation, during which the dentist assesses your teeth, gum health, and any potential issues that may affect the outcome of the treatment.

Most UK dental clinics offer two main types of professional whitening:

• In-practice Whitening: This involves applying a stronger bleaching agent to the teeth, often activated by light or laser technology to speed up the whitening process. Results can be seen within an hour.
• At-home Whitening Kits (supplied by a dentist): These kits include custom-fitted trays and a professional-grade whitening gel. The patient uses the trays for several hours a day or overnight over the course of a week or two.

Advantages of Professional Whitening:

• Effectiveness: Professional whitening treatments can lighten teeth by several shades in just one session. The strength of the whitening agent used by a dentist is much higher than anything available over-the-counter, ensuring more noticeable results.
• Safety: Dentists are trained to apply the whitening gel in a controlled manner, protecting your gums and oral tissues from irritation or damage. Custom-made trays also ensure that the whitening gel covers the teeth evenly without leaking onto sensitive areas.
• Longer-lasting Results: The effects of professional whitening tend to last longer due to the deeper penetration of the bleaching agents, typically lasting from six months to two years depending on lifestyle factors such as diet and smoking habits.

Costs in the UK:
Professional whitening can be more expensive, ranging from £200 to £1,000 depending on the type of treatment and the dental practice. In-practice treatments are usually at the higher end of this spectrum, while at-home kits provided by a dentist are more affordable.

2. Whitening Strips

How They Work:
Whitening strips are an over-the-counter option that can be purchased at pharmacies or online. These thin, flexible strips are coated with a lower concentration of bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide and are applied directly to the teeth for a specified amount of time each day, usually between 30 minutes and an hour, over the course of one to two weeks.

Advantages of Whitening Strips:

• Cost-effective: Whitening strips are considerably cheaper than professional treatments, typically costing between £10 and £60 in the UK.
• Convenient: They can be used at home without the need for a dental appointment, making them a popular choice for those looking for a quick and easy solution to teeth whitening.

Disadvantages of Whitening Strips:

• Limited Effectiveness: Whitening strips contain a much lower concentration of bleaching agents than professional treatments, which means the results are less dramatic. They may only lighten your teeth by one or two shades.
• Uneven Whitening: Because whitening strips are one-size-fits-all, they may not adhere perfectly to all the contours of your teeth, leading to uneven whitening. Strips can also miss hard-to-reach areas between teeth.
• Increased Sensitivity: Overuse of whitening strips or improper application can cause tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. Since there’s no dentist overseeing the treatment, you risk damaging your oral health if not used correctly.

3. Key Differences Between Professional Whitening and Whitening Strips

4. Which Option is Best for You?

Choosing between professional teeth whitening and whitening strips depends on your goals, budget, and dental health. If you’re looking for fast, long-lasting results and want to ensure the process is safe and tailored to your needs, professional teeth whitening at a dental clinic is the best option. This is particularly true for those with stubborn stains or discolouration from smoking, coffee, or red wine.

However, if you’re on a budget and only looking for mild whitening, whitening strips may be a suitable choice. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully and consult with your dentist if you experience any sensitivity or irritation.

5. Consult a Dental Professional First

Before starting any whitening treatment, it’s always best to consult with a dentist. They can assess whether teeth whitening is suitable for you, especially if you have existing dental work like fillings, crowns, or veneers that won’t respond to bleaching agents. Additionally, a professional cleaning may be recommended before whitening to remove surface stains and plaque that can affect the outcome.

At Ferndale House Dental Practice, we offer professional teeth whitening services tailored to your needs, ensuring safe, effective results that will leave your smile looking brighter and healthier. Contact us today to book a consultation and discuss the best whitening options for you.

References:

1. British Dental Health Foundation, “Teeth Whitening: Your Options,” accessed October 2024.
2. NHS, “Teeth Whitening – Your Questions Answered,” available at NHS UK, accessed October 2024.
3. General Dental Council (GDC), “Teeth Whitening Information,” available at [gdc-uk.org], accessed October 2024.
4. Oral Health Foundation, “The Safety of Teeth Whitening Procedures,” available at [dentalhealth.org], accessed October 2024.