Teeth Whitening In Turkey: Cost, Procedures & Honest Opinions (2026)

How do you get a beautiful smile that is bright, white and captivating?

The secret to a captivating smile lies in having brighter and whiter teeth. Many adults are becoming more self-aware of how their smiles look and are turning to teeth-whitening procedures to achieve a more compelling smile. 

Teeth whitening and dental veneers are the most popular options. Why, you might ask? Due to their instant amazing results.

In this article, we’ll explore teeth whitening treatments, how much they cost, how long they last, aftercare, and more. 

 What is Teeth Whitening? 

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that is risk-free, which aims to lighten your discoloured teeth and get rid of plaque and tartar. 

Teeth whitening is a basic procedure without any hassle, that consists of 3 main steps; 

Step One: 

This is the key step to getting teeth whitened. You start by booking a consultation with your dentist. The doctor then examines your teeth and gums and determines whether you are eligible for the whitening procedure. 

If the answer is yes, then he will provide you with a rubber shield to place on your gums to protect them from the whitening agents used to bleach your teeth. 

Step two: 

In step two, the doctor applies the whitening agent or gel, which is where the procedure’s reputation comes from. After placement, they use a special machine that cycles an LED light or laser to lighten the teeth’s colour. 

Step Three: 

This LED light or Laser breaks down the materials that were placed on your teeth during the procedure. How? These ingredients break down on the teeth and get into the enamel, which lightens the colour of your teeth. These gels and agents contain a higher percentage of an agent called ‘’peroxides’’ compared to at-home teeth kits. This percentage makes these types of procedures more successful and yields better results. 

What is the scientific basis for this procedure? We will explain and provide a simple breakdown of how this process works. 

How whitening works 

Teeth whitening usually begins after the gum guard is placed, and the agents begin getting placed on your teeth. 

These bleaching agents are peroxide-based (Hydrogen peroxide or Carbamide peroxide). These agents release reactive oxygen species that react with the stain molecules. This occurs on the tooth’s surface and inside. 

In simpler terms, the peroxide breaks apart the coloured molecules that make your teeth look yellow or brown. That happens because the agent breaks less-pigmented molecules, which is the key to making teeth look whiter. 

Have you ever wondered what the key difference is between teeth-whitening pastes and gels and professional teeth whitening?

Professional Whitening Vs Over the counter

There are tens, if not hundreds, of over-the-counter whitening products. How do we choose from all that noise, what’s best for us?

Professional Whitening 

Professional whitening is much safer than over-the-counter whitening because it is considered a Dental treatment. That means that it is a legal and clinical procedure in the UK and many other countries. 

Products that release between 0.1% and 6% hydrogen peroxide must be supplied or administered by a dental professional; concentrations above 6% are not permitted for cosmetic use outside professional control. 

That itself gives you an indicator that the DIY tools and products are not medically guaranteed because of three reasons; 

• They do not contain concentrated hydrogen peroxide, which is required to whiten your teeth effectively.
• They are not recommended by the concerned medical departments.
• Undergoing teeth whitening procedures by non-professionals can permanently damage your teeth.

Pros and Cons of  professional whitening: 

Professional whitening is a highly regulated procedure, from the materials used to the sensitivity of the LED machines. 

The NHS Dental Pharmacy published a PHARMACY DENTAL FACT SHEET in 2022, which is a PDF that contains informational guidelines on what you should ask your dentist. 

Over-the-counter whitening products

What they are

They are whitening toothpastes, strips, gels, and LED kits sold online or in shops. They usually contain very low hydrogen peroxide (≤0.1%) or non-peroxide alternatives.

These products could be promising, but they tend to underperform due to their lower peroxide concentration, which oxidises the yellow or brown colouring on the tooth. 

Pros and Cons of over-the-counter whitening products: 

OTC methods state that they have no absolute guarantee beyond the online testimonials and customer reviews. They have an array of pros and cons that we’ll explore. 

While OTC products are tempting, they should be used as tools to maintain and slightly whiten your teeth. They will not yield the same results of a professional whitening, despite how tempting their marketing is.

Types of Teeth Whitening 

There are four types of teeth whitening: in-clinic, Dentist-supervised home kits, over-the-counter products, and Turkish cosmetic packages. 

Let’s explore teeth-whitening methods and assess how effective they are.

In-clinic (laser / LED / single visit) 

At the clinic, teeth whitening typically requires one or two visits. It includes the initial examination, placement of gum protection, and cheek retraction to improve access to the teeth. 

Gel is applied in multiple cycles and activated with an LED light or laser. Sessions include two or four cycles, each lasting about 15-20 minutes.

Afterwards, the gel is removed and rinsed, finally, They give you a mirror to assess the results and walk you through the post-treatment care

Dentist-supervised home kits 

Custom trays are dentist-prescribed kits that combine professional oversight with at-home convenience. A dentist takes impressions of your teeth and creates custom trays to ensure even application of whitening gel.

• Protocol: Patients typically wear the trays daily for 2–4 weeks. The whitening gel contains a lower peroxide concentration than in-office treatments, making it safer for gradual use.
• Wear Time: Trays are usually worn for 2–6 hours per day, depending on the gel concentration and patient tolerance. Some protocols allow overnight use with milder gels.
• Results: Whitening occurs gradually, yielding a more natural, controlled result compared to the dramatic change of in-office whitening. Sensitivity is typically reduced due to the lower peroxide content.

 Why it’s different from OTC kits:

• Custom fit reduces leakage and gum irritation.
• Professional supervision ensures suitability and safety.

Custom trays are actually the best version of over-the-counter kits. They are provided by a dentist regarding your gums, teeth, and overall health.

Over-the-counter products 

Over-the-counter whitening products are widely available at pharmacies and supermarkets, offering an affordable way to brighten teeth without a dental visit. 

But there are some drawbacks to these products, such as 

Efficacy Limits:

• Whitening strips can lighten teeth by 1–2 shades, but are less effective on deep intrinsic stains.
• Whitening toothpaste primarily removes surface stains (extrinsic stains) and does not change the natural tooth shade.

OTC Products are best used as a supplement or maintenance tool, not a replacement for professional whitening treatments.

What are those cosmetic packages in Turkey, and how are they related to the country’s medical tourism boom?

Dental Tourism Packages (Whitening + Extras)

Dental tourism packages in Turkey are quite compelling. Clinics in Turkey offer a range of options, including affordable pricing, all-inclusive packages, and one-day treatments.

Bundled Offerings:

• Packages may include teeth whitening, professional cleaning, and X-rays.
• Added perks: travel coordination, accommodation, and airport-to-clinic transportation.

Cost vs. Quality Tradeoffs:

• Often much cheaper than UK/EU clinics, packages can be 30–70% lower in cost.
• The downside: quality can vary significantly between providers; results may not match professional standards at home.
• Patients must factor in hidden costs (flights, extra nights, potential corrective treatment back home).
  

Dental tourism packages can be an affordable shortcut to whitening and holiday perks, but careful selection of clinics is crucial to balance price and safety.

Procedure & Technology 

Whitening combines specialised gels with optional devices such as LED,, and light.
This provides a safe outcome that depends on the workflow used, gel concentration, and the number of sessions you will receive.

Step-by-step in-clinic

In a clinical environment, there is a sum of checklists that a dentist has to adhere to, in order to guarantee a perfect outcome. 

1. Exam & Shade Recording  dentist checks oral health, photographs shade.
2. Isolation of gums and lips protected with retractors/barriers.
3. Gel Application: hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gel is applied.
4. Activation optional light/heat exposure (LED or laser) for set cycles.
5. Rinse & Reapply gel refreshed after each cycle.
6. Aftercare Guidance advice on diet, sensitivity, and maintenance.

Gel & Hydrogen Peroxide use in UKs clinics.

Gel concentrations & safe frequency 

It is important to understand what’s actually in the gels, what’s legally allowed in the UK, and how often it is safe to repeat.

Multiple people think that stronger concentrations are better, but in reality, there are clear limits designed to balance results with safety. 

Typical Concentrations for Whitening Gels:

Hydrogen peroxide (HP): Most effective whitening agent; typical professional in-office gels are up to 6% HP equivalent (or released from higher % carbamide peroxide).

Carbamide peroxide (CP): Commonly 10–16% CP in dentist-prescribed home trays (≈3–5% HP equivalent).

The UK has strict rules on the use of HP, as it can severely damage teeth to the point of no return. Which is why they have implemented a series of laws and rules that limit the usage of HP in over-the-counter products. 

UK / EU Legal Limits

• Over-the-counter (OTC): Max 0.1% HP (very low, which is mainly for maintenance, not true whitening).
• Dentist-provided: Max 6% HP (or equivalent from CP), allowed only after dentist examination and for patients ≥18 years.
• Higher concentrations (>6% HP): Restricted to professional use under direct supervision, e.g. in-office procedures, but not for routine take-home supply.

We have gone through the 

Teeth whitening cost in the UK and Turkey

Whether in the UK or Turkey, clinic costs vary by location. We’ll be fair in our comparison: the average price for a whitening treatment in London ranges from £450 to over £1,000, while at-home kits cost around £100 to £400. Turkey’s whitening treatment, by contrast, costs £100 to £250. 

Turkey offers more affordable prices, but the drawback is that you have to find a reputable clinic that will give you your money’s worth. 

If you’re in Turkey or the UK, we’ve compiled a table with the prices of in-office LED treatments, home kit prices, session durations, gel concentrations, longevity, regulations, and sensitivity risks. 

Factors Affecting Price: Turkey Vs UK Teeth Whitening

So if you’re travelling abroad, be sure to ask about the gel concentration they’re using and sensitivity risks.

Whitening results don’t stop at the clinic chair, how you care for your teeth afterwards will decide how long your brighter smile lasts.

Aftercare & Maintenance 

First 48 Hours: Do’s & Don’ts

In the first two days, your tooth enamel is more porous (has holes), which can make it easier for stains to penetrate. To avoid stains, follow a white diet to protect your teeth. 

According to an NHS study, teeth become more sensitive. So it is best to follow the following checklists;

Do after whitening treatment:

• Eat light-coloured foods: rice, chicken, white pasta, potatoes, bananas.
• Drink only water or milk; if coffee/tea is essential, use a straw.
• Brush gently with a sensitive toothpaste (potassium nitrate or fluoride).
• Use lukewarm water to avoid extremes in temperature.
• Take mild pain relief if sensitivity occurs (e.g., paracetamol or ibuprofen).

 Avoid after whitening treatments:

• Avoid dark/staining foods: coffee, red wine, curry, berries, tomato sauce, fizzy drinks.
• Do not smoke or vape — nicotine stains quickly.
• Skip coloured mouthwash (e.g. chlorhexidine, bright blue/green rinses).
• Avoid abrasive whitening pastes or hard brushing.

Long term: touch-ups & habit changes

Your daily habits must change to maintain the results of your whitening treatment.
Typically, whitening treatment results vary, but most people maintain their results for 6-18 months, depending on their diet and lifestyle.

Touch-ups: these are sessions or dentist-prescribed trays to maintain results. Smokers and daily coffee/tea drinkers often need touch-ups sooner.

Habits that help:

• Rinse or brush after dark drinks/foods.
• Use a straw for coffee, tea, or fizzy drinks.
• Maintain regular dental cleanings every 6 months.
• Switch to sensitive or whitening toothpaste for maintenance.

Note: Too much OTC products can cause gum irritation or enamel wear, so you must always follow a dentist’s guidance.

FAQs

 Is teeth whitening a painful procedure?

A: Teeth whitening is generally considered a painless procedure, but some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or mild discomfort in their gums afterwards. This occurs because the bleaching agents can temporarily affect tooth enamel, but the sensitivity typically subsides within a few days. 

How long will the effect of teeth whitening last?

A: The results of teeth whitening are not permanent, and the duration varies from person to person. Typically, the effects last 6 months to 2 years. The longevity of your results depends heavily on your diet and lifestyle. Habits like smoking and consuming staining foods and beverages like red wine and coffee can cause your teeth to discolour more quickly.  

Does teeth whitening work for everyone?

A:No, teeth whitening is not equally effective for everyone, and not all teeth will whiten to the same extent. The degree of whitening depends on factors like genetics, age, and the type of discoloration present. Whitening is most effective on yellow-brown stains, while gray-blue or tetracycline stains are more resistant.

What are the most common side effects of teeth whitening?

A: The most common side effect is a temporary increase in tooth sensitivity. This is because the bleaching agents can temporarily irritate the nerves inside the teeth. Another potential side effect is gum irritation, which can occur if the whitening gel comes into contact with the gums and soft tissues. Both sensitivity and gum irritation are usually temporary and subside a few days after the procedure.