People contemplating improving their smiles with teeth whitening treatment should avoid visiting high street clinics, experts have suggested.
Addressing an increase in beauty salons and high street establishments offering the procedure, the General Dental Council (GDC) warned patients about the possibility of untrained practitioners.
Patients should seek professional treatment from an appropriately qualified practitioner to avoid the development of associated health risks, according to the GDC.
Dentist Graeme Tattersfield from Thornhill Dental Practice told the Dewsbury Reporter that members of the public should attend a reputable surgery when undergoing teeth whitening.
He said: "Even though whitening may appear a simple procedure, people need to ensure that the person is a trained dental professional."
This news comes after the GDC prosecuted a non-registered practitioner for performing teeth whitening procedures in Warrington.
Paul Hill was fined £6,765 after pleading guilty to four charges during an appearance at Westminster Magistrates Court.