According to recent research from the Oral Health Foundation, one in four people (28%) would rather buy tooth whitening kits over the internet or from beauticians than visit their dentist.

Here at Illume we find these figures shocking as they highlight the fact that many people are still not aware of the serious risks that such procedures can pose to their health, despite a wealth of publicity about the issue.

Illume practice owner and clinical director Tim Rumney says: “The fact people want their teeth to be whiter shows that they really do care about their appearance.

“This is why I really struggle to understand why so many of them are still reluctant to seek expert advice from a dentist about tooth whitening.

“The General Dental Council (GDC) has made it clear that applying materials and carrying out procedures designed to improve the aesthetic appearance of teeth amounts to the practice of dentistry, and this includes tooth whitening.

“I’m sure people wouldn’t expect a hairdresser to treat them if they wanted their nose to be straighter, so why would people believe such places can offer them safe tooth whitening?

“Even worse are those people who are buying from the Internet and have no idea who the real seller is and what the kits contain.  

“Illegal tooth whitening can lead to severe chemical burns and even permanent scarring which I am sure is not what people wishing to improve their appearance would want to happen to them.

“If such procedures are carried out by unqualified people, tooth loss can also result and it can even affect the ability of people to eat and breathe, again something I’m sure no-one would want to experience.

“So I would really like to urge people to visit their dentist if they want tooth whitening – kits may be cheaper but the long-term costs could be life-changing,” he added.

For more information about Illume’s tooth whitening procedures please visit the website.