BDA issues warning over illegal tooth whitening
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- Published: Thursday, 03 March 2016 07:33
- Written by News Editor
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Following a BBC investigation which revealed the scale of illegal teeth whitening across the West of England, the BDA has warned the public about this activity, which they say is running rampant. The BDA’s scientific advisor, Professor Damien Walmsley, said: “If you put yourself in the hands of unqualified individuals armed with unsafe chemicals then you are gambling with your health.”
Undercover reporters from the BBC’s Inside Out West filmed one provider operating under an assumed name just two years after he was prosecuted by the regulator, the General Dental Council, for illegal whitening.
The film revealed unlicensed online-trainers providing rudimentary guidance for illegal whitening, and recommending products including chlorine-dioxide whiteners that cause lasting damage to teeth. The BDA has called on the public to remain alert to the risks.
The British Dental Association’s scientific advisor, Professor Damien Walmsley, said: “The black market in teeth whitening is not confined to the West of England. Illegal whitening is now running rampant across the UK, and while authorities are doing what they can it’s vital that the public understand the risks. If carried out by a trained dental professional teeth whitening is perfectly safe. The alternative is illegal for a very good reason. Fly-by-nights with a few hours online training can cause lasting damage to your teeth and gums and can’t help you when something goes wrong. If you put yourself in the hands of unqualified individuals armed with unsafe chemicals then you are gambling with your health.”
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