There’s an undeniable confidence that comes with a brighter, whiter smile. However, the cost and commitment required for professional teeth whitening treatments can be discouraging. It’s not surprising that the market for at-home teeth whitening gel solutions has exploded.

Between gels, strips and powders, the options are varied and all relatively affordable, especially when compared to professional treatments that can exceed £1000. That said, it’s important to proceed with caution. While many products tout dramatic results, their real effectiveness can only be proven through use.

What is teeth whitening gel?

Teeth whitening gel is a product that lighten the colour of your teeth and removes stains or discoloration. It typically contains active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which break down into oxygen molecules that penetrate the enamel (the hard mineralised surface of your teeth), lifting stains and whitening the teeth.

The gel is usually applied directly to the teeth using a tray, brush, or strips. Some whitening gels are available for use at home, while others are used in professional dental treatments. Over time, regular use can result in a brighter, whiter smile. However, it’s important to follow instructions and use it properly to avoid tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.

Is hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening gel safe?

Yes, hydrogen peroxide is safe when used correctly. Some at-home teeth whitening gels and similar products rely on hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to break down stains through oxidation. They typically contain a hydrogen peroxide concentration ranging range from 3% to 10% (professional treatments may have higher concentrations).

While effective, these ingredients can weaken enamel over time, leading to that sharp, unpleasant ‘zing’ of sensitivity that many people experience. They are considered safe for short-term use, but you need to be mindful of not overusing the product and following instructions religiously.

Introducing the Whites Beaconsfield Advanced Teeth Whitening Kit

As teeth whitening brands move away from hydrogen peroxide-based formulas for safety reasons, many are turning to alternative ingredients. One such product is the Whites Beaconsfield Advanced Teeth Whitening Kit (available for £49,99). It uses phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid (or PAP – much easier to pronounce!) — a peroxide-free agent that oxidizes stains without releasing the harmful free radicals that cause sensitivity in traditional treatments.

Inside this kit, you’ll find three 5ml PAP Gel Syringes and one LED Mouth Tray, as well as clear instructions for safe use.

How to use it

The pre-filled syringes really pull all the weight for you. Just squeeze the gel slowly into the tray, aiming to cover both the top and bottom bites. It’s normal for some gel to shift when you fit the tray into your mouth, which might make you feel it’s not evenly distributed. But don’t worry – chances are it’s fine. If you’re unsure, you can apply a little extra gel directly to your teeth for peace of mind (I have done this and it worked well).

The Whites Beaconsfield kit includes three syringes, so you can use about a third or half of a syringe each day. I had quite a lot of gel left over, so I kept using it a few days beyond the recommended seven.

The tray is lightweight and fits snugly, and the gel has a neutral taste with no harsh chemical aftertaste. After a few minutes, you’ll forget you’re even wearing it—just be sure to have something entertaining on TV to keep you occupied.

I left the whitening gel on for about 30 minutes, which is within the recommended wear time of 20 to 30 minutes. I found it best to use in the evening, as it’s probably not ideal to wear during the day—especially if you get pulled into executive team meetings often while working from home (that might require a bit of explaining!).

The 7-day process

One of the main drawbacks of at-home whitening kits is the hassle: messy gels, uncomfortable trays, and awkward application. But actually, the process becomes quite intuitive once you fit it into your daily routine. It really doesn’t take longer than a minute or two to prepare to fill out your tray and fit it.

After seven days of use, the results are in (*drum roll please!*):

My teeth are slightly brighter and more even in tone, particularly the lateral incisors and canine teeth. The change is very subtle but noticeable (I have a feeling that a miraculous, smile-changing whitening treatment would cost considerably more than £50!).

If you’re hoping for dramatic, instant whitening, then a professional treatment at the dentist is your best bet. But if you simply want a natural enhancement, this kit can be a suitable evening companion. Because it works gradually, it is likely that the more you use it, the better the results over time.

One strong plus of the Whites Beaconsfield Teeth Whitening kit is that it caused no sensitivity issues. The formula is gentle and I felt no discomfort at any point. This kit is particularly well-suited for:

• Those with sensitive teeth
• Gradual whitening and stain reduction
• Maintenance after professional whitening treatments

If you’re expecting instant, dramatic whitening, you may be disappointed (as you will with any at-home product). But overall, the new Whites Beaconsfield kit is a safe whitening solution for healthier-looking teeth and a beaming smile. You can also use it as a supplement to your in-clinic treatment.

If you get on well with this starter kit, you can buy the refills from Whites Beaconsfield directly for £29.99.