What is teeth whitening?
It uses a bleaching gel to make your natural teeth a lighter shade. At Clover Dental, we offer both in-clinic whitening and take-home whitening with trays made for your teeth and a gel your dentist gives you.
What are veneers?
They are thin shells, usually made of porcelain or composite, bonded to the front of teeth. They can change the colour, shape or size of teeth.
Fitting veneers usually means removing a thin layer of the tooth surface, which cannot be undone.
Is whitening right for me?
It can be, if you are an adult with healthy teeth and gums. Whitening works on natural teeth only, so it does not change the colour of fillings, crowns or veneers.
It may not suit you if you have untreated decay or gum disease, or very sensitive teeth, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. We check for these first.
If your teeth are chipped, worn, stained or uneven and whitening alone would not help, veneers may be an option.
How white will my teeth get?
It depends on your teeth and what caused the staining. Your dentist will tell you what to expect before you start.
What happens when you have your teeth whitened?
- Your dentist checks your teeth and gums. Any decay or gum problems are usually treated first.
- You talk through the options, what to expect and the cost.
- Your current shade is recorded.
- In the clinic: your gums are protected and the whitening gel is applied to your teeth.
- At home: moulds or a scan of your teeth are taken to make your trays, and you are shown how and when to wear them.
- You come back so your dentist can check the result and your gums.
How long do whitening and veneers take?
Home whitening usually takes about two weeks of daily use. An in-clinic session usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes in one visit. These are estimates; the time may vary after your dentist assesses your needs.
Veneers usually take two or more visits.
How long does whitening last?
The effect fades over time, at a different pace for each person. Tea, coffee and smoking make it fade faster.
Will whitening make my teeth sensitive?
It can. Some people get sensitive teeth or sore gums for a short time during or after whitening. Tell your dentist if this happens, and they can suggest ways to ease it.
Can I use whitening products I buy online?
Ask your dentist first. Products sold outside the clinic vary, and some can harm your gums or teeth.
How much do whitening and veneers cost?
It depends on the type of whitening and, for veneers, on the material and the number of teeth. You will know the cost before you start, and you can also ask when you book.
How do I book?
WhatsApp or call the clinic nearest you: Ang Mo Kio Ave 10, Ang Mo Kio (Central) or Clementi. Each clinic’s numbers are on our clinics page, or you can send a booking request.