We offer Enlighten teeth whitening at Pear Tree Dental in Nottingham, and we have seen firsthand how it transforms smiles. Here is what you need to know about the treatment, how much it costs, and whether it is right for you.
What Is Enlighten Teeth Whitening?
Enlighten is a professional teeth whitening system developed by Enlighten Smiles Limited, a British dental company founded by a group of cosmetic dentists. Unlike over-the-counter whitening kits or other professional systems, Enlighten uses a unique combination of technology and chemistry to deliver genuine results.
The system works in two stages. First, you use custom-made trays with professional-grade whitening gel at home for two weeks. Then, you come in for a final appointment at the surgery to complete the treatment. This dual approach is what makes Enlighten different from one-off whitening treatments.
The results are clinically proven. In fact, Enlighten is the only teeth whitening system to offer a guaranteed B1 shade result — the whitest shade of natural tooth. So if you have tried other treatments and been disappointed, Enlighten often succeeds where others fail.
How Does Enlighten Teeth Whitening Work?
The treatment starts with a consultation. During this appointment, we will assess the current shade of your teeth, discuss your goals, and explain what Enlighten can realistically achieve. We will also check that your teeth and gums are healthy enough for whitening — the treatment is not suitable if you have active gum disease or very sensitive teeth.
Assuming you are a good candidate, we move forward with the treatment plan.
Stage 1: Two-week home treatment
After your consultation, you will take home a set of custom-made whitening trays and professional-grade gel. You will wear these trays at night for fourteen days. The trays fit snugly over your teeth, which means the gel stays in contact with your tooth surface for the entire duration — something generic trays cannot do.
This is the key to Enlighten's success. Consistent, gentle whitening over two weeks works much better than a single strong treatment or random at-home efforts.
Stage 2: Final in-surgery appointment
After the fourteen nights of home treatment, you come back to the practice for your final appointment. We will apply a professional-strength gel in the surgery to complete the whitening process and lock in your result. This is also when we confirm you have reached your B1 shade guarantee.
How Long Do Results Last?
Most patients see results that last between two and three years, depending on lifestyle habits. Drinking lots of coffee, tea, red wine, or smoking will stain your teeth faster. If you avoid heavily staining foods and drinks, your results will last longer.
Many patients choose to do a quick top-up treatment annually to maintain their whiteness. This is much faster than the full treatment and keeps your smile looking fresh year-round.
What Can Enlighten Whiten?
Enlighten works on natural teeth that are still living — it will not whiten crowns, bridges, or fillings. If you have these restorations, they will remain their original shade, though a dentist can shade-match them to your new whiter teeth if needed.
The system does work on heavily stained teeth, which is why it is so popular with patients who have tried other methods unsuccessfully. Yellow teeth, brown stains, grey discolouration from antibiotics, and staining from coffee and red wine all respond well to Enlighten.
Enlighten Teeth Whitening Cost in Nottingham
Enlighten teeth whitening at Pear Tree Dental costs £650 for the full treatment. This includes the two-week custom-made tray home treatment and the final in-surgery appointment.
While this is more expensive than high street whitening, it is a genuine investment in a treatment that actually works. You are paying for a clinically proven system with a B1 shade guarantee, custom-made trays, and professional guidance — not a one-size-fits-all kit that might not fit properly or deliver results.
Compare this to the cost of veneers (£600–£1,200 per tooth) or cosmetic bonding (£200–£400 per tooth), and whitening suddenly looks like excellent value. You get a real transformation without touching the structure of your teeth.
Will It Hurt?
Some patients experience mild tooth sensitivity during the treatment, particularly if their teeth are already sensitive. This usually settles quickly and can be managed with a sensitive toothpaste before and after the treatment.
If you are concerned about sensitivity, mention it during your consultation. We can recommend protective measures before you start and can adjust the home treatment gel strength if needed.
Can I Eat and Drink Normally?
After your final in-surgery appointment, you can eat and drink straightaway. There is no downtime.
During the two-week home treatment, we recommend avoiding heavily staining foods and drinks — especially immediately after wearing your trays, when your teeth are temporarily more porous. So avoid red wine, curry, soy sauce, and strong tea or coffee during those two weeks. Orange juice and other acidic drinks are also best skipped, as they can make teeth more sensitive.
This is temporary. Once you have completed the course, you can return to normal eating and drinking habits.
Is Enlighten Whitening Right for You?
Enlighten is suitable for most adults with healthy teeth and gums. It is particularly good if:
- You have tried over-the-counter whitening and been disappointed
- Your teeth are heavily stained or discoloured
- You want results that last 2–3 years
- You prefer professional treatment with proven science behind it
- You want a guaranteed B1 shade result
It is not suitable if you have active gum disease, very severe tooth decay, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Enlighten teeth whitening last?
Enlighten results typically last 2 to 3 years, depending on lifestyle and staining habits. Many patients maintain results with annual touch-up treatments.
How much does Enlighten whitening cost in Nottingham?
Enlighten teeth whitening at Pear Tree Dental costs £650 for the full treatment, including the two-week custom tray home treatment and the final in-surgery appointment.
Does Enlighten whitening hurt or cause sensitivity?
Some patients experience mild tooth sensitivity during treatment, but this usually settles quickly. We can recommend protective measures during your consultation.
How does Enlighten whitening work?
Enlighten uses a two-stage process: two weeks of custom-tray home treatment with professional-grade gel, followed by a final in-surgery appointment to complete the whitening and confirm the B1 shade result.
Can Enlighten whiten crowns or fillings?
No, Enlighten whitens only natural teeth. Crowns, bridges, and fillings will not change colour. Your dentist can shade-match restorations to your new whiter teeth.
What can I eat and drink after teeth whitening?
You can eat normally after your in-surgery appointment. During the two-week home treatment, avoid heavily staining foods and drinks like red wine, curry, and coffee to protect your results.