The BBC investigation raised concerns over illegal teeth-whitening treatments being administered in non-sterile settings.
Alongside treatments being delivered in car parks and on doorsteps, the report also highlighted that certain gels, containing bleaching agents at concentrations 500 times the legal limit for over-the-counter products, were being openly sold on social media by beauticians.
As part of the investigation, a BBC North West reporter obtained a fake teeth-whitening qualification, was supplied with “extreme” bleach, and advised to practise on friends and family. The report also revealed that one seller described the profits from offering such treatments as “insane”.
Laboratory tests on products purchased by undercover reporters detected hydrogen peroxide levels of up to 53%, despite regulations stating only General Dental Council-registered professionals may use products containing more than 0.1%, with a maximum limit of 6% for dentists.
The British Dental Association (BDA) said it was “appalled” at the results of the investigation.
Eddie Crouch, chair of the BDA, commented, “In the UK, only qualified dental professionals are allowed to carry out teeth whitening. The BBC’s investigation has found that these illegal teeth whitening providers are undeterred by the prospect of a criminal record or a fine which, since 2016, can be an unlimited amount. The risk must seem worth the reward to these fraudsters. We urge people not to gamble with their oral health and the government to organise a crack-down on these dangerous practices and mis-selling as an urgent priority.”
Discussing the investigation with Aesthetics, dental surgeon and Aesthetics Clinical Advisory Board member Dr Souphi Samizadeh commented, “The BBC’s findings are alarming. These unregulated products often contain unknown and unstable chemical compounds that can cause severe chemical burns, nerve damage, permanent tooth sensitivity and even tooth loss. Teeth-whitening is a medical procedure that must only be performed by registered dental professionals with controlled, evidence-based materials. This situation highlights an urgent need for public education and stricter enforcement to protect patients from preventable harm.”