New tooth whitening laws came into effect on 31 October 2012. First and foremost, UK law now officially recognises that tooth whitening is the practice of dentistry. Tooth whitening products containing or releasing between 0.1% and 6% hydrogen peroxide are to be sold to dental practitioners only.

Products containing or releasing between 0.1% and 6% hydrogen peroxide are legal for tooth whitening, provided that a dentist performs an initial clinical examination and either carries out the first treatment or supervises a suitably qualified dental professional. After this, the dentist can supply the product to the patient so they can complete the cycle of use at home.

Any non-dental professionals performing tooth whitening treatment are liable to be prosecuted. It is the role of the General Dental Council (GDC) to prosecute non-dental professionals who are providing a tooth whitening service, however, Trading Standards can act if the individual or company are using a concentration of (or releasing) over 0.1% hydrogen peroxide.

The new laws will help to protect patients and give more prominence to the dental professional's role.

www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/2263/introduction/made