Teeth whitening treatments should be well thought through.

Before carrying out any cosmetic dentistry procedures, Brits have been advised to weigh up the various courses of action that are open them.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, before carrying out bleaching or teeth whitening, people should ensure they have taken all the preventative measures they can to reduce discolouration of the teeth.

It advised considering the possible side effects of treatment, such as increased tooth sensitivity, tissue irritation or possible root damage.

Furthermore, it noted that bleaching is not recommending for baby teeth and should only be carried out on adults.

Elsewhere, a recent survey of 2,227 US adults by Harris Interactive showed more than half (55 per cent) would like to have teeth whitening treatments carried out in 2010.

Tom Seery, president of RealSelf.com – the firm that commissioned the study – said: “While cost is a major factor, cosmetic surgery requires a much deeper set of considerations around safety and knowledge of what to expect.”