How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost in the UK?
Teeth whitening in the UK usually costs between £300 and £1,000, depending on the type of treatment and the dental practice you choose.
Professional whitening is the safest and most effective way to achieve a brighter smile, offering results that shop-bought products simply can’t match.
If you’d like to learn more about our teeth whitening treatments in Hertfordshire, call 01920 821579 or email info@elegancedental.co.uk
What Is the Average Cost of Teeth Whitening?
The average cost of professional teeth whitening ranges from £300 to £1,000, depending on whether you choose an in-chair treatment or a dentist-supervised take-home kit.
In-chair whitening
In-chair whitening usually costs £500 to £1,000. It’s carried out during a single appointment using a stronger whitening gel, sometimes activated by a special light. The main advantage is that you get instant, noticeable results.
Take-home whitening kits
Take-home kits from your dentist cost £300 to £600. These include custom-made trays and professional whitening gel that you apply at home over 1–2 weeks.
Although the results take longer to appear, the final outcome can be just as effective as in-chair whitening.
What Affects the Cost of Treatment?
The price of teeth whitening can vary for a few reasons:
Location: Practices in large cities, especially London, often charge more.
Experience of the dentist: Highly skilled cosmetic dentists may charge higher fees due to their expertise.
Whitening system used: Some products offer faster or longer-lasting results, which can impact the overall cost.
These factors mean that prices can differ even between nearby practices, so it’s always worth comparing what’s included before making a decision.
How Do In-Chair and Take-Home Whitening Compare?
In-chair whitening offers the quickest results because you leave the practice with a brighter smile on the same day. It’s ideal if you want fast improvement for an event or photos.
Take-home kits are more affordable and give you greater control, but they require consistency over several days. Many patients choose a combined approach, starting with in-chair whitening and maintaining the shade using take-home top-ups.
Are Shop-Bought Whitening Products Effective?
Not really, shop-bought whitening strips, gels, and toothpastes are cheaper, usually £10 to £60, but they contain weaker whitening agents.
Because they aren’t custom-fitted, they can cause uneven whitening or sensitivity. In some cases, incorrect use may harm enamel or gums.
While they may offer mild brightening, the results are not comparable to professional treatments.
How Long Do Teeth Whitening Results Last?
Professional whitening results typically last six months to two years, depending on your lifestyle habits and oral hygiene routine.
Factors that reduce how long results last include:
Frequent consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, or dark foods
Smoking or tobacco use
Skipping regular oral hygiene
Habits that help maintain your shade include:
Brushing twice daily
Flossing regularly
Attending routine dental check-ups
Top-up treatments
Most patients use dentist-provided take-home kits every 6–12 months to refresh their smile. These small touch-ups help maintain your preferred shade and make your initial treatment more cost-effective.
What Should You Know Before Whitening Your Teeth?
Before whitening, it’s important to book a consultation with your dentist. They will examine your teeth, check for any issues that need treating first, and recommend the whitening option that suits your goals and budget.
Whitening can lighten your natural teeth by several shades, but it won’t change the colour of crowns, veneers, or fillings, so your dentist may discuss how to achieve an even look if you have existing dental work.
Is Professional Teeth Whitening Worth It?
Yes, for most people, professional teeth whitening is worth the investment because it offers safer, brighter, and longer-lasting results than over-the-counter products.
Many patients feel more confident, look refreshed, and enjoy a healthier-looking smile.
If you’re ready to explore your teeth whitening options, contact our team for a consultation. We’ll assess your needs and recommend the best treatment to help you achieve a bright, confident smile.
