PRODUCTS on sale over the counter that promise to whiten teeth can exacerbate gum disease and are illegal under European law, the British Dental Association (BDA) said yesterday.

An increasing number of people want to polish their stained teeth to achieve whiter, brighter smiles. Private dental clinics are also smiling as the market for cosmetic dentistry in Britain has grown over a decade to be worth a reputed £1 billion. But products that contain high levels of peroxide dye can make teeth and gums painfully sensitive, the BDA warned consumers.

Do-it-yourself tooth-whitening kits are available in high street pharmacies and on the internet for less than £10. They are a cheap and popular alternative to the smile makeovers and surgical bleaching treatments offered by dental clinics at a cost of between £300 and £1,300. But the BDA says that take-home kits should be used with caution since they involve using poorly moulded mouth guards, which are worn overnight, allowing leakage of solutions that contain high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, a chemical typically associated with hair colourings.

Jo Tanner, from the BDA, said yesterday: “Most people will suffer from gum disease at some point in their lives, caused by bacteria that are removed by thorough brushing. Using a bleaching gel while you have inflammation of the gums would be like pouring vinegar on a paper cut.”

A spokesman for the General Dental Council, which regulates dentistry in Britain, said: “Tooth-whitening products contain bleach and need to be handled with caution. Only registered dentists are permitted to apply materials and carry out procedures designed to improve the aesthetic appearance of teeth.”

Ms Tanner said:“Liquids that discolour teeth, will darken them again over time. Prior to commencing whitening or any other cosmetic dental procedure, the BDA recommends getting a full dental assessment of your mouth.”

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