Dentist Hertfordshire

Teeth whitening in the UK: what the law allows

By Dr Faiz Azizan Data last checked How we list clinics

In the UK, teeth whitening products containing more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide may only be supplied for use by or under the supervision of a registered dental professional. Beauty salons and kits that exceed that limit are not lawful. Check that your provider is on the GDC register.

What the law says

Cosmetic products for tooth whitening may contain up to 0.1% hydrogen peroxide. Stronger products, up to a legal maximum, may only be used by registered dental professionals, who must carry out an assessment first.

Checking your provider

Ask whether a registered dentist or other GDC-registered dental professional will assess your teeth and carry out or supervise treatment, then confirm their registration on the GDC register.

Things to know

Whitening only changes natural tooth colour, not crowns, veneers or fillings. Sensitivity and gum irritation can occur, so tell the dental professional about any gum problems or existing restorations.

Questions to ask your dentist

  • Who will carry out or supervise the whitening, and are they on the GDC register?
  • Will you assess my gums and any crowns, veneers or fillings first?
  • What strength product is used, and is it within the legal limits?
  • What side effects should I expect and what should I do if I get sensitivity?

Hertfordshire dentists that mention this treatment

Compare practices whose own websites mention this treatment, by town:

Credentials and treatments on those pages are stated by each practice and are not verified; see the methodology.

Sources

This guide is general information compiled by an independent directory, not clinical advice. See the disclaimer and methodology.

Related

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a beautician whiten teeth?
Not with products above the 0.1% limit. Higher-strength whitening must involve a registered dental professional.
Is whitening available on the NHS?
No. Whitening for cosmetic reasons is private.
Where can I compare Hertfordshire dentists for "teeth whitening in the uk"?
Town pages that compare practices mentioning this treatment on their own websites: Teeth Whitening in Watford, Teeth Whitening in St Albans, Teeth Whitening in Stevenage, Teeth Whitening in Harpenden and Teeth Whitening in Borehamwood. Listings are A-Z and based on what each practice states, checked 6 October 2026.
Is the guide "Teeth whitening in the UK" medical advice?
No. It is general information compiled by Dr Faiz Azizan from official sources such as NHS.uk and the General Dental Council. For advice about your own teeth speak to a registered dentist; for urgent problems call NHS 111.