The Dark Side of Teeth Whitening

Alex Gomes
Nov 22, 2025
2 min read

The desire for a bright, white smile has grown rapidly, fueled by social media trends and the popularity of cosmetic beauty treatments. However, this growing demand has also opened the door to a dangerous underground market: illegal teeth-whitening procedures performed by unqualified individuals using highly toxic products.

A recent BBC investigation exposed alarming practices involving extremely high-strength bleaching gels being sold and applied in car parks, salons, and even doorsteps, putting the public’s dental health at serious risk.

What the Law Actually Says

In the UK, the rules are clear:

Products containing more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide cannot be sold freely.
Treatments using products with up to 6% hydrogen peroxide can only be performed by registered dentists or dental professionals.

Despite this, the BBC found illegal gels containing up to 53% hydrogen peroxide — over 120 times stronger than what non-dentists are legally allowed to use.

When Whitening Goes Wrong: A Real Case

One story highlighted by the investigation is that of Kellie Howson, 54, who paid £65 for whitening at a beauty salon. She immediately felt severe pain during the procedure, and the results were catastrophic:

She lost four teeth
The gums suffered chemical burns
The damage required tens of thousands of pounds in corrective treatment
Her confidence and social life were deeply affected

“I was in agony. I didn't want to go out or see anyone,” she said.

Her case is not an isolated one — but it is a devastating reminder of the real dangers involved.

Fake Training, Fake Certificates, Real Damage

The investigation revealed:

Fake teeth-whitening qualifications sold online
Beauticians advised to practice on friends and family
Kits handed over in car parks, wrapped in party bags or plastic baggies
No safety instructions, no patient assessment, no professional supervision

Some sellers openly boasted about the “insane profits” they were making.

Why High-Strength Bleaching Gels Are So Dangerous

According to dental experts from the University of Lancashire:

Strong bleaching gels can cause chemical burns
They can permanently destroy enamel
The damage can be irreversible

While many people want a brighter smile, only trained dental professionals are equipped to assess whether whitening is safe — and what concentration is appropriate.

Sometimes, the patient doesn’t need whitening at all — just a routine cleaning.

How to Protect Yourself

✔ Always seek whitening treatments from a licensed dentist✔ Be cautious of extremely low prices — they are a red flag✔ Avoid products sold through social media or informal channels✔ Remember: your teeth are not replaceable

A smile should be cared for — not risked.

Conclusion

The dream of a whiter smile should never come at the cost of your health.Illegal teeth whitening puts your enamel, gums, and long-term oral health in danger — and the consequences can be life-changing.Trust only qualified dental professionals. The risks associated with underground whitening simply aren’t worth it.