Teeth Whitening Singapore | All you need to know Guide 2023

It is no secret that whiter, brighter teeth boost an attractive smile.
Teeth whitening is a hot topic in 2023, and the demand for teeth whitening in Singapore is ever-growing. Not only do whiter teeth make you look smart, clean, and professional, As more people pursue whiter smiles, the Singapore teeth whitening market has also responded by providing various options. Some are very innovative, while some are less safer than others.
So, if you are planning to start your teeth whitening journey, you are in the right place. We will guide you through everything you need to know about teeth whitening in Singapore in 2023.

What is Teeth Whitening?

The most common answer you would expect is “Get your teeth brilliant white!” However, this is a highly generalized statement. In realistic terms, tooth whitening is an aesthetic treatment for patients seeking to enhance their smile and appearance. It is a cosmetic procedure that will make your teeth reach their natural color by removing stains and making them lighter than existing colors by several shades. In essence, teeth whitening will take away stains and make your teeth whiter and brighter than what you currently have.

In general scientific terms, a bleaching agent is used (most commonly hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide in varying concentrations). This bleaching agent activates when it comes in contact with your teeth, creating a chemical reaction that destroys the bonds with the stains and removes the discoloration of the teeth.

How Teeth Get Discolored?

Teeth discoloration is any type of change in color or translucency. It occurs over time and is mostly due to external and internal factors, such as our diet, aging, and tooth injuries. Tooth discoloration is typically classified as extrinsic, intrinsic, or a combination of both, according to the location of the stain.

Extrinsic stains are caused by substances that are on the surface of the teeth, such as food, drink, and tobacco. These stains can be removed by brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings.

Intrinsic stains are caused by substances that are inside the teeth, such as fluoride, tetracycline, and some medications. These stains are more difficult to remove and may require professional treatment.

Combination stains are caused by a combination of extrinsic and intrinsic factors. These stains can be more difficult to remove than either type of stain alone.

Teeth Whitening Options in Singapore

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), teeth whitening treatments can be divided into three groups:

In-office whitening: This is the most effective type of teeth whitening and is performed by a dentist. The dentist will apply a bleaching gel to your teeth and then use a light or laser to activate the gel. The treatment usually takes about an hour.
Take-home whitening: There are many different take-home teeth whitening products available, such as strips, gels, and pens. These products are less effective than in-office teeth whitening, but they are also less expensive and more convenient.
Over-the-counter whitening: There are also a number of over-the-counter teeth whitening products available, such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and whitening strips. These products are the least effective type of teeth whitening, but they are also the most affordable.

How do I find a dentist who can whiten teeth in Singapore?

Not all dentists in Singapore can whiten teeth. Only dentists who are registered with the Singapore Dental Council (SDC) and who have completed the appropriate training can perform teeth whitening procedures.

To find out if a dental professional is registered you can check the online register on the Ministry Of Health Singapore website.

Teeth Whitening Costs and Prices in Singapore

The cost of teeth whitening in Singapore varies depending on the type of treatment, products used, and equipment used. Over-the-counter teeth whitening products are less expensive than in-office professional teeth whitening treatments, but the results may not be as good.

Type	Teeth Whitening Cost/Price $SGD
Professional in-clinic teeth whitening	$800 – $5000
Teeth whitening strips	Starting at $12 per package
LED teeth whitening	Starting at $30
Home teeth whitening kit (Dental)	$300 – $600
Over-the-counter teeth whitening kit	$50 – $200
Laser teeth whitening	$500 – $1500
Beauty salon teeth whitening treatments	$100 – $200

Here are some factors that can affect the cost of teeth whitening:

The type of treatment: There are two main types of teeth whitening treatments: in-office and at-home. In-office treatments are more expensive than at-home treatments, but they are also more effective.
The products used: The products used in teeth whitening treatments can also affect the cost. Professional-grade products are more expensive than over-the-counter products, but they are also more effective.
The equipment used: The equipment used in teeth whitening treatments can also affect the cost. Laser teeth whitening is more expensive than LED teeth whitening, but it is also more effective.

It is important to consult with a dentist or other healthcare professional to determine the best teeth whitening treatment for you. They can help you assess your needs and choose the treatment that is right for you.

Adverse Effects of Teeth Whitening

The most common side effects of teeth whitening are tooth sensitivity and gingival or mucosal irritation. Other effects include minor orthodontic tooth movement, temporomandibular dysfunction due to long-term tray use, and sore throat.26-30 In terms of in-clinic teeth whitening, most patients do not experience notable side effects because the dentist can monitor the process and perform treatment in a way that minimizes the risk.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a possible side effect of teeth whitening due to the bleaching agents used to whiten teeth. The most common teeth-whitening agents are hydrogen peroxide (HP) and carbamide peroxide (CP). Sensitivity is caused by the diffusion of by-products produced during HP and CP breakdown through dentinal tubules.33 These microtubules within the teeth can be exposed due to the solution removing minerals within the enamel and causing the teeth to be temporarily porous.

The good news is that even with home-bleaching products, the majority of people only experience mild sensitivity, and less than 5% experience it severely.31 In in-clinic teeth whitening, most patients do not experience noticeable sensitivity.30 Symptoms are noticed early in the treatment, usually after 2-3 days, and may persist for 3-4 hours following removal of the tray and disappear shortly after the treatment ends.32

If you do have sensitive teeth, it is best to consult a dentist prior to teeth whitening. As part of the treatment plan, your dentist may advise using desensitizing toothpaste and fluoride gels prior to the treatment or during treatment.

Gingival or Mucosal Irritation

Gingival or mucosal irritation is inflammation of the gums or other soft tissues in the mouth. It can be caused by a number of things, including teeth whitening.

Home-based teeth whitening can cause gingival or mucosal irritation if the trays are not properly fitted and the whitening gel gets in contact with the gums.32 In-office teeth whitening can also cause gingival or mucosal irritation, but the risk is lower because the trays are customized to fit each individual patient and the dentist can monitor the treatment and prevent overspill.

Mild Discomfort and Pain

Teeth whitening is a non-invasive and non-surgical treatment, so the discomfort is expected to be low. However, during the teeth whitening process itself, you may feel minor discomfort or irritation due to the bleaching agents that cause the nerve endings in the teeth to become irritated. This is temporary.

There are also some practical discomforts associated with teeth whitening. For example, during in-office teeth whitening, patients must remain seated in one place for at least 60 minutes. To help alleviate this discomfort, many dentists have ceiling-mounted entertainment systems in their offices. Alternatively, home-based teeth whitening treatments must be self-administered, which can be inconvenient for some people.

Effects on Tooth Structure

Teeth whitening is not an invasive procedure and does not affect the tooth structure. However, prolonged use, excessive bleaching, or teeth whitening more frequently than recommended can cause damage to tooth structure (enamel and dentin). This is due to the strong oxidizing agent in the whitening solution, which can harm the teeth if it comes into direct contact with the enamel for an extended period.30 This is why in-office teeth whitening is much more recommended than over-the-counter products.

Is Teeth Whitening Result Permanent?

Teeth whitening treatment results are not permanent, but you can prolong their longevity.

How long do teeth whitening results last?

The second most frequently asked question about teeth whitening is, “How long does it last?” The answer is that it varies from person to person and depends on a number of factors, including the type of teeth whitening treatment used, the individual’s oral hygiene habits, and their lifestyle choices.

In general, teeth whitening results can last anywhere from a few months to 3 years. Over-the-counter teeth whitening products typically produce results that last less than one year, while in-office teeth whitening treatments can produce results that last for 2 to 3 years. However, it is important to note that these are just general guidelines and the actual longevity of teeth whitening results will vary from person to person.

Here are some factors that can affect the longevity of teeth whitening results:

The type of teeth whitening treatment used: In-office teeth whitening treatments are generally more effective than over-the-counter treatments and can produce results that last longer.
The individual’s oral hygiene habits: People who brush and floss regularly and avoid staining foods and drinks are more likely to have longer-lasting teeth whitening results.
The individual’s lifestyle choices: People who smoke, drink heavily, or use certain medications may be more likely to experience shorter-lasting teeth whitening results.

How can I make my teeth whitening last longer?

Teeth whitening is a popular procedure in Singapore, and many people want to know how to make the results last. Here are some tips:

Avoid staining foods and drinks. The most common causes of tooth staining are smoking, coffee, tea, and red wine. If you can avoid these foods and drinks, your teeth will stay whiter longer.
Brush and floss regularly. Good oral hygiene is essential for keeping your teeth clean and free of stains. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss once a day.
Use a whitening toothpaste. Whitening toothpaste can help to remove surface stains and keep your teeth looking whiter.
Get regular dental checkups. Your dentist can help you to identify any potential problems with your teeth and gums, and they can also give you tips on how to maintain your white smile.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your teeth white and looking their best for years to come.

Here are some additional tips to help maintain the results of your teeth whitening treatment:

Use a desensitizing toothpaste.
Avoid using whitening products more often than recommended.
Do not use whitening products if you have sensitive teeth.
Get regular dental checkups and cleanings.

If you are concerned about the longevity of your teeth whitening treatment, be sure to talk to your dentist. They can help you choose a treatment that is right for you and provide you with tips on how to prolong the results.

Do’s and Don’ts After Teeth Whitening

After teeth whitening, it is important to follow some simple guidelines to help your teeth stay white and healthy. Here are some dos and don’ts:

Dos:

Brush and floss regularly. Good oral hygiene is essential for keeping your teeth clean and free of stains. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss once a day.
Use a whitening toothpaste. Whitening toothpaste can help to remove surface stains and keep your teeth looking whiter.
Avoid staining foods and drinks. The most common causes of tooth staining are smoking, coffee, tea, and red wine. If you can avoid these foods and drinks, your teeth will stay whiter longer.
Get regular dental checkups. Your dentist can help you to identify any potential problems with your teeth and gums, and they can also give you tips on how to maintain your white smile.

Don’ts:

Do not smoke. Smoking is a major cause of tooth staining. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your teeth.
Do not drink dark-colored beverages. Coffee, tea, and red wine are all major causes of tooth staining. If you drink these beverages, try to limit your intake and drink them through a straw.
Do not eat staining foods. Beets, berries, and other dark-colored foods can stain your teeth. If you eat these foods, try to brush your teeth immediately afterwards.
Do not use whitening products more often than recommended. Over-using whitening products can damage your teeth. If you use a whitening product, follow the instructions carefully.

By following these simple guidelines, you can help your teeth stay white and healthy for years to come.

Conclusion

Teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your smile. If you are considering teeth whitening, be sure to talk to our dentist about your individual needs and expectations.