Whitening Age Restriction — ORE Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: A — 18 years
Under UK law (GDC position statement, revised 2019, and EU Cosmetics Directive 2011/84/EU), the legal minimum age for cosmetic tooth whitening is 18 years. Products containing or releasing between 0.1% and 6% hydrogen peroxide cannot be used on anyone under 18 except where treatment is intended solely to treat or prevent disease (e.g. discolouration from trauma or systemic conditions). This aligns with UK age restrictions on other body modifications such as tattooing and sunbed use. Option E (16 years) and C (14 years) fall below the legal threshold. Option C (21 years) is more restrictive than the law requires. Option B is incorrect because a clear minimum age does exist.
Reference: General Dental Council (GDC). Tooth Whitening Position Statement (revised 2019). Available at: https://www.gdc-uk.org/information-standards-guidance/information-on-dental-treatment/tooth-whitening-and-illegal-practice/what-is-the-legal-position. UK Government. Botulinum toxin and cosmetic fillers for under-18s: guidance for enforcement officers (2021). Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/botulinum-toxin-and-cosmetic-fillers-for-under-18s-guidance-for-enforcement-officers.