Teeth Whitening in Singapore

What is teeth whitening? And what is the most effective way to whiten teeth?

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure aimed at lightening the colour of your teeth and removing stains and discolouration. Here are different methods commonly used for teeth whitening:

1. In-office whitening:

   • This procedure is performed by a dentist and involves the application of a highly concentrated bleaching gel to your teeth, followed by light activation to accelerate the bleaching process.

   • It is a fast and effective method that can significantly lighten your teeth by 7-8 shades in a single visit.
     

     

2. Take-home whitening kits:

   • The dentist will take a mould of your teeth to provide custom-fitted trays and a lower concentration of bleaching gel for you to use at home.

   • These trays are worn for a specified period each day for a few weeks to achieve gradual whitening.

     

     
     

3. Over-the-counter products:

   • There are various over-the-counter whitening products like whitening strips, and gels available at pharmacies or supermarkets.

   • While they can provide some improvement, they generally contain lower concentrations of bleaching agents compared to professional treatments.

     

4. Whitening toothpaste:

   • These toothpastes contain mild abrasives or polishing agents to help remove surface stains.

   • While they can contribute to maintaining whiter teeth, they might not dramatically change the natural colour of your teeth.

It is important to note that not everyone's teeth respond the same way to whitening treatments, and the effectiveness can vary based on the cause of discolouration, such as genetics, medications, and certain foods or habits like smoking.

Before undergoing any whitening treatment, it is advisable to consult with a dentist to determine the most suitable method for you. They can assess your dental health, discuss your expectations, and recommend the best approach to achieve the desired results safely. 

Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings, can help maintain a bright smile after whitening treatments.

What are the types of teeth stains and will teeth whitening work on my stains?

Dental stains can be categorised into two main types based on where the discolouration occurs: extrinsic and intrinsic stains.

Extrinsic stains

These stains affect the outer layer (enamel) of the teeth and are typically caused by external factors, such as food, beverages, and lifestyle habits. Some common causes include:

1. Food and beverages:

   • Certain foods and drinks, like coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and deeply pigmented foods, can cause extrinsic stains over time due to their chromogens (colour-producing substances).

2. Usage of tobacco:

   • Smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to stubborn extrinsic stains that are difficult to remove.

3. Poor oral hygiene:

   • Inadequate brushing and flossing might result in plaque and tartar build-up, leading to surface discolouration.

4. Certain medications:

   • Some medications, especially certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracycline) when taken during tooth development, can cause discolouration.

Intrinsic stains

These stains occur within the inner structure of the tooth (dentin) and can be more challenging to remove. Some common causes of intrinsic stains include:

1. Dental trauma:

   • Injuries to the teeth can cause them to change colour, often turning darker due to internal bleeding or nerve damage.

2. Aging:

   • As people age, the enamel on their teeth becomes thinner, revealing more of the yellowish dentin underneath.

3. Excessive fluoride:

   • Too much fluoride intake during tooth development (fluorosis) can lead to intrinsic discolouration, causing white spots or brown stains on the teeth.

4. Certain health conditions and treatments:

   • Some diseases or treatments, such as certain types of infections, metabolic disorders, or chemotherapy, can cause intrinsic discolouration.

Understanding the type of stain is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment. While extrinsic stains can often be addressed with professional cleanings, whitening treatments, or improved oral hygiene practices, intrinsic stains may require more advanced procedures like dental veneers, or in severe cases, dental crowns to mask the discolouration. Consulting a dentist is recommended to identify the cause of staining and explore suitable treatment options.

Teeth whitening procedures: What can you expect?

The steps for teeth whitening can vary based on the method chosen, whether it is an in-office procedure performed by a dentist or an at-home treatment. Here are the general steps for both approaches:

In-office teeth whitening

1. Consultation:

   • The process usually begins with a consultation with your dentist to assess your dental health and discuss your goals for teeth whitening.

2. Preparation:

   • Before the whitening procedure, your dentist may take photographs of your teeth to track progress and clean your teeth to remove any plaque or debris to maximise the benefits of the treatment.

3. Protection:

   • To shield your gums and soft tissues, a protective barrier or a gel may be applied to prevent the bleaching agent from irritating or harming them.

4. Application of whitening agent:

   • A professional grade bleaching gel, usually containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, is applied to your teeth. A special light or laser may be used to activate the whitening agent and accelerate the bleaching process.

5. Multiple sessions (if needed):

   • Depending on the degree of discolouration and desired results, the process might involve several applications or sessions.

6. Evaluation:

   • After the final application, the dentist evaluates the results to determine the achieved level of whitening.

At-home teeth whitening

1. Consultation:

   • Your dentist evaluates your oral health and discusses at-home whitening options with you.

2. Custom tray creation:

   • If using custom trays, your dentist will take moulds of your teeth to have custom-fitted trays fabricated for you.

3. Instructions:

   • You will be provided with the whitening gel and instructions on how to apply it into the trays and wear them for the prescribed duration.

4. At-home treatment:

   • Typically, you will wear the trays for a specified time each day for several weeks until you achieve the desired level of whitening.

5. Follow-up:

   • You might have a follow-up appointment with your dentist to assess progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Whichever method you choose, it is crucial to follow your dentist's instructions diligently and maintain good oral hygiene practices to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the whitening treatment. Consulting a dentist before starting any whitening procedure is recommended for proper guidance and to determine the most suitable approach for your teeth.

How much is teeth whitening in Singapore?

The cost can range from SGD 30 to SGD 200 or more, depending on various factors. Public institutions like polyclinics may charge less, but private clinics often have shorter waiting times.

Can I use MediSave/CHAS to pay for teeth whitening?

• For teeth whitening, CHAS subsidies are not available.

• MediSave typically does not cover general dental treatments, such as teeth whitening, unless they involve surgical procedures deemed medically necessary. Non-surgical dental treatments, including teeth whitening, are not eligible for claims under the MediSave scheme. 

FAQ

What causes teeth discolouration?

Teeth can be discoloured due to various reasons, including aging, consumption of certain foods and drinks (like coffee, tea, red wine), smoking, poor oral hygiene, and certain medications.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Generally, teeth whitening is considered safe when done under the guidance of a dental professional or using over-the-counter products according to instructions. However, excessive or improper use of whitening products can lead to tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.

How long does it take to see the results?

The time it takes to see results varies depending on the whitening method used. Some products show immediate results, while others may take a few days or weeks.

How long do the effects of teeth whitening last?

The duration of teeth whitening effects is highly variable among individuals, but it usually lasts from 1 to 3 years. It is highly dependent on factors such as lifestyle, diet, and oral hygiene. Avoiding staining foods and beverages and practicing good oral care can help prolong the results.

How does teeth whitening work?

Teeth whitening products typically contain peroxide-based bleaching agents. These agents penetrate through the enamel surface to break down and oxidise the discoloured and pigmented molecules within the tooth, making the colour less concentrated and your teeth brighter.

Can I whiten my teeth at home?

Yes, there are various over-the-counter teeth whitening products available, including whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels. However, it is advisable to consult with a dentist before starting any at-home whitening treatment.

Are there any side effects of teeth whitening?

Common side effects include tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. These are usually temporary and subside after the whitening process is completed. If you experience persistent discomfort, it is important to consult with a dentist.

Is teeth whitening suitable for everyone?

Teeth whitening may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals who are pregnant or lactating, have allergies to whitening agents, and those with specific dental conditions may need to avoid or delay whitening treatments.

What level of whiteness can I achieve for my teeth?

The degree of whitening varies from person to person. While some individuals can attain a notable improvement, others may observe more subtle changes. The outcome is influenced by factors such as your natural tooth colour and the underlying cause of discolouration.

Remember, it is essential to consult with a dentist before starting any teeth whitening treatment to ensure it is safe and suitable for your dental health.