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Perfect smile 'could turn into grimace' with DIY teeth-whitening kitsDate: 27/06/2007 09:00:51
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While the quest for a dazzling set of pearly whites is seen as a quick fix for an unattractive stained smile, scientists are now warning that the high levels of bleach contained in teeth-whitening kits could be bad for your health.
A study into teeth-whitening kits has found many contain illegally high levels of a bleaching agent that could cause sensitive teeth, gum disease or even chemical burns to the mouth.
DIY teeth-whitening products have become popular with many people looking to avoid having to pay the comparatively high costs of cosmetic dentistry.
Yet the Trading Standards Institute's (TSI) tests found hydrogen peroxide levels were higher than the legal limits in 18 out of the 20 kits that they tested.
According to current regulations, DIY teeth-whitening kits can only contain a maximum of 0.1 per cent of the bleaching agent - more commonly used to dye hair.
However, investigators found one product contained 23.8 per cent hydrogen peroxide.
Speaking at the TSI's annual conference in Manchester, Ron Gainsford, the organisation's chief executive, said: "Many people these days aspire to having the perfect Hollywood smile and some stars have paid a lot of money to achieve this through cosmetic dental treatment.
"There are much cheaper kits on sale for home use – for instance, some of those tested by trading standards cost as little as £14. But this could end up burning more than a hole in your pocket."
Mr Gainsford added that the TSI "strongly recommends" anyone wanting to whiten their teeth cosmetically should consult a qualified dentist.
Talk to a qualified doctor now about cosmetic surgery on 0906 665 8002. Calls cost £1.50 per minute from a BT landline. 24 hrs 7 days a week. Callers must have bill payer's permission and be over 18. All calls are recorded but you do not have to give your name. All Doctors are GMC registered and either fully qualified GPs or post membership hospital specialists. Not for emergency use, diagnosis or prognosis. Not designed to replace a face to face consultation with a medical professional, and any callers taking such advice in isolation do so at their own risk. In the case of a medical emergency, dial 999. Calls last a maximum of 20 minutes.
 © Adfero Ltd
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