Teeth whitening treatments that ‘burn gums and destroy teeth’ are being given illegally across the UK, according to a BBC research.
The report revealed that some teeth whitening gels contain more than 500 times the legal limit of whitening agent for over-the-counter products. These illegal products were found for sale on social media, sometimes being delivered in parking lots and on doorsteps.
UK law states that products containing more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide can only be dispensed by General Dental Council (GDC) registered dental professionals. Products for use by registered professionals are also limited to a 6% bleaching agent concentration.
However, the researcher was able to obtain a fraudulent whitening certificate and purchase gel with a peroxide content of up to 53%. They were also given a “training course” in the form of a series of messages sent via Whatsapp and advised to “practice on family and friends”.
Touting the benefits of illegal treatments, the provider said “it’s really cheap to do and the profit is crazy.”
“I was in agony”
A patient reported losing four teeth after paying £65 for teeth whitening treatment at a beauty salon in Lancaster. He said the pain started shortly after treatment and “got worse and worse” as time went on.
The patient said it took years and tens of thousands of pounds to repair the damage caused. Her dentist informed her that only removing four teeth would cure her pain.
The beautician who administered the treatment was ordered to pay £250 compensation for illegal dental practice.
There have been no successful prosecutions by the GDC since 2021 based on customers reporting malpractice. A GDC spokesman said: “GDC investigations are reactive and not proactive, in line with our statutory mandate and objectives.”
“Nerve damage, even tooth loss”
The British Dental Association (BDA) said it was “disappointed but not surprised” by the survey results.
BDA chairman Eddie Crouch said: “In the UK, only qualified dental professionals are allowed to whiten teeth. In the wrong hands, teeth whitening can be extremely dangerous. It’s not just the excruciating pain or the burning lips and gums, but the fact that it can lead to nerve damage and even tooth loss.
“The BBC’s investigation found that these illegal teeth whitening providers are not deterred by the prospect of a criminal record or a fine which, as of 2016, can be an unlimited amount. The risk must appear to be worth the reward of these crooks.
“We urge people not to gamble with their oral health and for the Government to organize a crackdown on these dangerous practices and poor sales as an urgent priority.”
“Deeply disturbing”
Nyree Whitley, Chief Clinical Officer at Mydentist, commented: “Recent research revealing dangerously high levels of whitening agents in some over-the-counter teeth whitening products is deeply concerning. Patient safety must always come first and these findings highlight the dangers of unsupervised cosmetic treatments.
“Whitening treatments should always be professionally supervised. When whitening gels are used incorrectly or contain illegal concentrations of active ingredients, they can cause serious harm, including chemical burns, enamel damage and long-term sensitivity.
“Patients should always check that a treatment is administered or prescribed by a registered dentist in order to achieve a brighter smile without compromising oral health.”
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