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What Is Teeth Whitening?

What Is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure aimed at brightening your smile by removing stains and discolouration. Over time, common factors like coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco can lead to a dull or yellowish appearance of teeth, affecting your confidence.

Whitening can effectively lighten the natural colour of your teeth without removing any of the tooth surfaces, restoring their brightness. While it may not completely change the colour, it does significantly lighten the existing shade, offering a noticeable improvement. For the best results and to avoid risks such as irritation or sensitivity, it’s important to have the treatment done by a qualified dental professional. Our expert team is here to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

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What Causes Tooth Discolouration?

What Causes Tooth Discolouration?

Tooth discolouration is a common dental issue, and many people may experience it without realising the underlying causes. If you’ve noticed your teeth becoming less white over time, you’re not alone. Several factors contribute to tooth discolouration, some of which require immediate attention to prevent the problem from worsening.

Extrinsic (External) Stains

Extrinsic stains affect the enamel, the outer layer of the tooth. To minimise these stains, regular cleaning and moderation in consuming staining substances is key. When stains occur, whitening treatments can work.

Causes:

Food & Drinks: Tea, coffee, berries and wine have pigments that stick to the tooth enamel.
Smoking: Tar in cigarettes causes brownish discolouration.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Not brushing or flossing regularly allows plaque to build up and discolour.
Ageing: Over time, enamel thins and more of the yellowish dentin shows through.

Intrinsic (Internal) Stains

Intrinsic stains are inside your tooth enamel. These stains can develop even before your teeth break through your gums as a child. These are usually grey, brown or yellow. Unlike surface stains, intrinsic discolourations require professional dental treatment as regular cleaning won’t work.

Causes:

Age: As enamel thins with age, the yellowish dentin becomes more visible, causing teeth to darken.
Medication: Some medications, such as antihistamines, antipsychotics, and high blood pressure drugs, can lead to tooth discolouration. Treatments like chemotherapy and radiation to the head and neck can also lead to tooth darkening.
Dental trauma: An injury to a tooth may cause internal bleeding, leading to grey or brown discolouration over time.
Genetic disorders: Conditions like dentinogenesis imperfecta can cause teeth to be discoloured from birth.
Antibiotic: If young children are exposed to antibiotics such as tetracycline or doxycycline while their teeth are developing (either in the womb or as babies), their adult teeth may become discoloured later.
Overexposure to fluoride: Excessive fluoride during childhood can cause fluorosis, leading to white or brown stains.
Tooth decay (dental caries): Cavities expose the dentin, causing brown or black discolouration as the tooth decays.
Root canal treatment: Teeth may turn grey or brown after a root canal due to the removal of blood supply.
Heavy smoking: Prolonged smoking can cause nicotine and tar to penetrate the enamel, resulting in deep yellow or brown stains.

If you’re ready to get rid of those stubborn tooth stains, Nuffield Dental MY is here to help. Our expert team provides personalised care, ensuring you get the best treatment for your specific needs. Don’t wait until discolouration worsens—schedule your appointment today and get back to smiling confidently!

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Teeth whitening treatments often use a bleaching gel containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These bleaching agents break down stains into smaller particles, making the colour less concentrated and your teeth appear brighter.

Application: To begin, the dentist will apply a protective layer, such as a rubber shield or gel, to your gums to protect the soft tissue. Next, they will apply the whitening product to your teeth. This can be done either by directly painting it onto your teeth or by using a custom-made tray that fits into your mouth like a gum-shield.
Mechanism: The bleaching process involves chemical reactions that break down the staining compounds within the tooth structure, effectively lifting stains and brightening your smile.
Effectiveness: Results can vary based on the type and severity of your stains. Some stains may respond better to whitening treatments than others.
Duration: The time it takes to see results depends on the specific whitening treatment you choose, whether it’s an in-office procedure or an at-home kit.

Pure Peroxide: Dentist applies high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide for 15-20 minutes per session, over a course of 45-60 minutes. Results in faster and better whitening due to high bleach concentration.

The choice between hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide depends on your whitening goals, tooth sensitivity, and whether the treatment is performed at home or by a dental professional. Consulting with a dentist can help determine which option is best for you, ensuring the effectiveness and safety of the whitening process.

Get in touch with our team today to find the best teeth whitening solution for your smile!

Teeth Whitening Treatment Options in Malaysia

Teeth Whitening Treatment Options in Malaysia

Malaysia has various teeth whitening treatments for both extrinsic and intrinsic stains as mentioned earlier. From in-office treatment for rapid and dramatic results to take-home kits for gradual improvement, each method addresses the different challenges of different types of tooth discolouration.

While maintaining your desired shade of white may require repeated treatments, it’s important to avoid excessive whitening to prevent potential damage to your teeth.

1. In-Office Teeth Whitening

In-office teeth whitening is a professional procedure performed by a dentist. It typically involves applying a high-concentration bleaching gel to your teeth and using heat, light, or laser technology to activate the whitening agent. This method can achieve dramatic results in a single session, making it a popular choice for those seeking immediate improvements.

Light-Accelerated Whitening: Uses a combination of whitening gel and special light (usually LED or halogen) or ultraviolet light boost to speed up the bleaching process, gives significant whitening in about an hour.
Laser Teeth Whitening: Application of bleaching agent to the teeth and then activated and accelerated by laser light. This method is generally completed in an hour.
Chemically Activated Whitening: This does not require light or laser to activate the bleaching agent. Instead, it uses a specially formulated gel that starts working upon contact with the teeth, suitable for those who don’t want light-based treatment.
Hybrid Whitening Systems: These systems may combine in-office treatment with take-home kits to enhance and maintain whitening results. They often involve a preliminary in-office treatment followed by custom-fitted trays at home.
Custom Tray Whitening: While primarily a take-home method, it’s sometimes initiated in the dental office with the creation of custom-fitted trays. Dentists may start the process in-office to ensure proper application and effectiveness.

For quick, dramatic results that you can rely on, consider professional in-office teeth whitening.

2. At-Home Teeth Whitening

At-home teeth whitening kits offer a convenient and affordable way to brighten your smile. These do it yourself (DIY) kits typically come in the form of gels, pastes, strips, or mouthguards that are filled with a whitening agent.

Access to over-the-counter products is easy, an entry-level whitening solution. Popular options are whitening toothpaste, teeth whitening strips, teeth whitening gels, teeth whitening rinses, teeth whitening chewing gums and teeth whitening pens. These are the most accessible and affordable way to whiten your smile on a budget. But less effective than professional treatment.

While at-home teeth whitening can be effective, it’s important to use these products wisely. Excessive use of abrasive products can damage your tooth enamel, so it’s recommended to consult with your dentist and choose products that have received the ADA seal of approval.

Natural Teeth Whitening

Brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste is a simple yet effective way to naturally whiten your teeth. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevents cavities, while regular brushing removes food particles and surface stains that can dull your smile.

But it is essential to note that, unlike professional treatments and products, this method does not offer instant and drastic whitening effects. Moreover, it lacks scientific evidence for effectiveness.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Teeth Whitening Options

Treatment Method	Description	Pros	Cons
In-Office Teeth Whitening	Professional treatment for immediate results, including light-accelerated, laser, chemically activated whitening and hybrid systems.	Immediate and dramatic results Supervised by dentist, safe Customised to individual needs Various options, including non-light-based	More expensive than other options Tooth sensitivity due to higher bleach concentration More than one dental visit may be required to achieve desired shade
At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits	Kits for home use, offering gradual whitening over time.	Convenient, can be used at home More affordable than chairside treatment Custom-fitted trays available for better results Professional grade ingredients, but less concentrated than chairside treatment	Slower results, requires consistent use Risk of misuse or overuse Less effective than chairside treatment
Over-the-Counter Products	Accessible whitening options like strips, gels, and pens, available in many retail stores.	Most affordable and accessible Can be used without professional supervision For minor stains and discolouration	Least effective among the options, temporary results One-size-fits-all, may not fit well and uncomfortable Higher risk of uneven whitening and gum irritation due to less precise application

Risks of Home Kits and Salon Teeth Whitening

Home teeth whitening kits and salon treatments, while offering a quick fix for a brighter smile, can pose significant risks to oral health if not done correctly.

Home Teeth Whitening Kits

Insufficient Whitening Agent: Some kits may lack the necessary strength to produce noticeable results, leading to wasted time and money.
Improper Fit: The provided mouthguard might not fit correctly, allowing the bleaching gel to leak onto gums or into the mouth. This can cause gum irritation, blistering, or increased sensitivity.

Salon Teeth Whitening

Unqualified Personnel: Beauty salons often employ staff without proper dental training, increasing the risk of complications.
Illegal Procedures: Such treatments may be illegal, as they are regulated by dental boards.
Severe Side Effects: In some cases, botched procedures have led to severe gum burns and permanent damage.

Real-Life Examples of the Dangers

While cosmetic procedures can enhance one’s appearance, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Even seemingly simple treatments can have severe consequences if not performed correctly.

For instance, a mother from Ireland suffered severe gum burns after a salon treatment due to the neglect of using a protective gel. Similarly, an improper fit during an at-home teeth whitening treatment led to severe swelling and blistering, as the bleaching gel leaked and caused an allergic reaction.

The Importance of Professional Treatment

To ensure safe and effective teeth whitening, it is crucial to consult with a qualified dentist. Dentists can assess your oral health, recommend appropriate treatments, and monitor the process to minimize risks.

By choosing professional treatment, you can achieve a brighter smile without compromising your oral health.

Teeth Whitening Treatment Procedure

Before the Procedure

Consultation:

Book an appointment with a dentist for an initial consultation to check if you’re suitable for teeth whitening.
Discuss the best whitening method for you, considering your oral health and any dental work you have.
Teeth whitening often requires 2-3 visits to the dental surgery for optimal results.

Preparation:

Dental examination to identify and treat any underlying problems, such as cavities or gum disease, to have a clean and healthy mouth.
Professional cleaning to remove plaque and surface stains to enhance the whitening treatment.
Ensure good oral hygiene, may include scale and polish to prepare your teeth for the whitening.

During the Procedure

Application Process:

Application: After the gums are covered, the whitening agent (as explained in “How Does Teeth Whitening Work?”) is applied to your teeth. This step uses the bleaching properties to target and whiten the discolouration.
Activation: Depending on the method chosen, an LED or laser light may be used to activate the gel, with your dentist supervising the application and monitoring the results.
Time: The whole process is monitored, takes about an hour, safe and comfortable.

Post-Procedure Care:

Sensitivity Management: You may experience some sensitivity. Your dentist may recommend products to help with this.
Maintaining Results: To keep your whitened smile, follow good oral hygiene and diet that minimises staining substances.

Time to give your teeth some love – book a consultation with us today.

Teeth Whitening Benefits

Teeth Whitening Benefits

Confidence and Aesthetic Improvement:

A brighter smile is perceived as a sign of health and vitality.
Teeth whitening in Malaysia can make a big difference to your smile.
Whiter teeth can boost self confidence, impact personal and professional life.

Motivation for Oral Health:

Teeth whitening results can motivate better oral hygiene.
Want a whiter smile means you’ll maintain the results through better dental care.

Ready to experience the difference a brighter smile can make? Book your consultation with Nuffield Dental MY today and discover our personalised teeth whitening solutions.

Dos and Don'ts After Teeth Whitening

To keep your teeth whitening results, here are the do’s and don’ts:

Dos After Teeth Whitening:

Brush your teeth gently, using white, fluoride toothpaste twice a day and regular dental cleanings to prevent surface stains.
To reduce sensitivity, consume room-temperature foods and drinks and take over-the-counter pain relievers.
As much as possible, choose clear or white beverages and food to avoid discolouration.
Maintain oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing and using uncoloured mouthwash.
Drink plenty of water after meals.
Visit your dentist for check-ups and cleanings.

Don’ts After Teeth Whitening:

Consume staining food and drinks, such as red wine, acidic foods, and dark-coloured beverages, for 48 hours.
Smoke or use tobacco products.
Miss dental appointments as they are important for maintenance.

Tooth Shade Guide

Tooth Shade Guide

When you go for teeth whitening, your dentist may use a Tooth Shade Guide to assess your initial tooth colour and track the progress over time. Tooth shades vary from person to person and the natural colour of your teeth is determined by genetics, lifestyle and oral health. This guide helps to visualise the results of the whitening treatment and set realistic expectations for the outcome.

How to Use:

Before Treatment: Your dentist will carefully create a baseline by comparing your teeth’s present shade to the guidance. Planning the therapy goals and comprehending the starting position depend on this stage.
After Treatment: Your dentist will use the guide once again to compare your teeth to the original shade after the whitening procedure is finished. The improvements and modifications made are clearly evident in this comparison.

What You’ll See:

The Tooth Shade Guide presents a selection of porcelain or plastic teeth from the lightest to the darkest in colour. It is intended to represent the range of natural tooth hues found in various spectrums:

A: Reddish-brown shades
B: Reddish-yellow shades
C: Grey shades
D: Reddish-grey shades

The intensity of each color group is indicated by a number (1–4), where “1” stands for the lightest hue. B1, the brightest natural category in the guide, displays the lightest shade that may be achieved without sacrificing naturalness. It’s crucial to establish reasonable aesthetic expectations because even the whitest natural teeth have a faint yellow undertone.

You can easily see the degree of whitening achieved by using the instructions to visualise the change in shades before and after the procedure.

Setting Realistic Expectations

It’s important to have a realistic understanding of what teeth whitening can do. Not all teeth will whiten the same and your initial tooth shade plays a big role in the outcome. Here are things to consider:

Intrinsic vs Extrinsic Stains: Teeth whitening treatments work best on extrinsic (surface) stains caused by food, drinks and smoking. Intrinsic stains inside the tooth may not respond as well and may require alternative cosmetic treatments like veneers.
Age and Tooth Structure: Younger teeth with more porous enamel whiten easier. Over time, enamel wears down and the yellower dentin underneath becomes more visible, making whitening less effective.
Pre-existing Dental Work: Existing dental restorations like crowns or fillings will not whiten with whitening treatments and may result to uneven shades if these restorations are on visible teeth.

Remember, the goal is to enhance your smile by improving the tone of your teeth without compromising your oral health. It’s also a step to ensure that results meet your expectations.

Am I a Good Candidate For Teeth Whitening?

Healthy Gums and Teeth: Essential for whitening. Pre-existing dental issues should be addressed first.
Surface Stains: Staining or yellowing from food, drinks and smoking respond best to whitening.
Sensitivity: If you have sensitive teeth or gums, discuss it with your dentist. There are solutions to reduce sensitivity.
Lifestyle: Your diet and smoking habits after whitening affect how long the results last. Avoid stain causing substances.
Expectations: Understand that results vary. Whitening improves brightness but a “Hollywood” white is not guaranteed for everyone.
People with live nerves in their teeth: Most effective on “vital” teeth, those that haven’t had a root canal, so the end colour is uniform.
People with no major restorations: Best results are seen in those with no fillings, crowns or veneers as these restorations don’t whiten like natural tooth enamel and can cause uneven colouring.

Discussing these with your dentist will help you determine if teeth whitening is a good cosmetic treatment for you.

Teeth Whitening Risks

Teeth Whitening Risks

Sensitivity: Teeth may become sensitive to cold during or after the treatment, especially for those who are already sensitive, as the whitening agents reach the dentin.
Mouth and Gum Irritation: Some chemicals used in teeth whitening can cause tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. Whitening products, especially when used incorrectly, can lead to gum discomfort or even temporary burns.

At Nuffield Dental MY, we understand your desire for a brighter smile and are committed to providing safe and effective teeth whitening treatments. Our experienced dental professionals will carefully assess your oral health and recommend the most suitable whitening method for your individual needs.

Teeth Whitening Complications

Overuse: Frequent application of whitening treatments without professional guidance can lead to enamel degradation, erosion (wearing away of the teeth), and loss of minerals from the teeth.
Pulp Damage: In severe cases, excessive whitening can damage the pulp, the soft tissue inside your teeth.

Given these potential complications, it’s important to choose a qualified dentist for your teeth whitening treatment. At Nuffield Dental MY, we prioritise your oral health and use safe, medically approved whitening treatments. Our team of experienced professionals customises each treatment to ensure it suits your needs while minimising the risks of complications.

We monitor every stage of the process to reduce discomfort and ensure long-lasting, natural results. Book a consultation with us today, and let us help you achieve a brighter, healthier smile.

How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost in Malaysia?

Treatment	Price Estimates in RM
Light-Accelerated Whitening	Starts from RM 388.80
Laser Teeth Whitening	RM 1620 to RM 4212
Chemically Activated Whitening	Starts from RM 2916
Hybrid Whitening Systems	Starts from RM 4536
Custom Tray Whitening	Starts from RM 324
Take-Home Teeth Whitening Kits	Starts from RM 1620
Over-the-Counter Products	RM 32.40 to RM 324

Bear in mind that costs may vary depending on the condition of your teeth and the clinic you visit. Before you commit to a treatment, ensure the clinic’s reputation for effective results aligns with your budget.

Additional Costs to Consider:

Initial Dental Consultation: Consultation fees can range from RM 162 to RM 486.
Dental Cleaning: Some dentists recommend a professional cleaning before teeth whitening to ensure the best results. Dental cleaning can cost between RM 259.20 to RM 648.

Are There Subsidies for Teeth Whitening Treatment in Kuala Lumpur?

Are There Subsidies for Teeth Whitening Treatment in Kuala Lumpur?

In KL, in-office and take-home whitening treatments are considered cosmetic procedures and therefore not covered by government health subsidies or MySalam. Some private health insurance plans in Malaysia may cover whitening but it’s usually under special benefits or wellness programs offered by the insurers. These programs may offer partial reimbursement or discounts for cosmetic procedures including whitening. Do check your policy or consult with your insurer to find out what’s available.

Why Choose Nuffield Dental for Teeth Whitening in KL?

When it comes to your dental health, Nuffield Dental Malaysia is committed to providing top-notch care. Here’s why you should choose us:

Experienced Dental Team: Nuffield Dental Malaysia is led by a team of over 10 dental professionals. Our multidisciplinary team includes dentists, orthodontic consultants and nurses who are dedicated to ensuring your experience is seamless and effective. Many of our dentists have received advanced training in orthodontics, implantology, and cosmetic dentistry, so you can trust that you are in good hands.

Continuous Upgrading of Skills: In Malaysia, dental nurses are not required to hold any formal qualifications. At Nuffield Dental, however, we are a firm believer of training our staff to professional standards, to give our patients the best possible experience. Our Dental Surgery Assistant (DSA) program teaches all staff theoretical knowledge and practical skills in handling dental instruments, equipment and treatments, so they can take care of your oral health.

Technology for Enhanced Care: At Nuffield Dental MY, we believe in using the latest technology to improve patient outcomes. Our clinics incorporate green technology with very low radiation doses to ensure your safety during treatments. We also use 3D printing and intraoral scanners to provide precise diagnostics and more effective treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Teeth Whitening Alternatives

Here are some effective teeth whitening alternatives that can help brighten your smile without using traditional bleaching methods:

Veneers: Covers your teeth, masks severe discolouration or dental imperfections.
Bonding: Uses a resin to fix small flaws or blemishes on your teeth.

While veneers and bonding are effective for certain issues, Nuffield Dental focuses on preserving your natural teeth with non-invasive, safe whitening treatments. Our clinically proven methods gently remove stains without damaging enamel, offering long-lasting results without frequent touch-ups. Schedule a consultation today!

Book an Appointment

Fill out the form for any request or questions you have and we will contact you within one working day.

FAQ

1. Can Teeth Be Whitened Permanently?

2. How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

3. Why is Professional Whitening So Costly?

4. Are Teeth Whitening Treatments Safe?

5. Do Teeth Whitening Treatments Hurt?

6. How Long Does Teeth Whitening Take?

7. How Many Sessions Does It Take to Whiten Your Teeth?

8. What is the best treatment to whiten my teeth?

9. Is Whitening Your Teeth the Same as Bleaching?

10. How Often Should I Whiten My Teeth?

11. I've Tried Whitening My Teeth Multiple Times But I'm Still Dissatisfied With The Results. What Can I Do?

12. How White Should My Teeth Be?

13. Can I Whiten a Single Tooth?

14. Does Whitening Work On All Teeth?

15. Can Pregnant Women Go For Teeth Whitening?

16. Can Children Go For Teeth Whitening?

17. Will teeth whitening work on false teeth?

18. Does charcoal-activated whitening work?

19. Can baking soda whiten teeth?

20. Can any dentist whiten teeth?

Medical References

Bersezio, C., et al. (2021). Evaluation of the effectiveness in teeth whitening of a single session with 6% hydrogen peroxide Laser/LED system. Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, 36, 102532. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pdpdt.2021.102532

Epple, M., et al. (2019). A critical review of modern concepts for teeth whitening. Dentistry Journal, 7(3), 79. https://doi.org/10.3390/dj7030079

Zlatarić, D. K., et al. (2019). A clinical study assessing the short‐term efficacy of combined in‐office/at‐home whitening treatment. Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry, 31(2), 140–146. https://doi.org/10.1111/jerd.12467

Why Choose Nuffield Dental?

Nuffield Dental is a one-stop, multi-disciplinary dental care centre in Malaysia. At Nuffield, we put you first. We believe in providing personalised service for each patient.

Nuffield Dental is a one-stop, multi-disciplinary dental care centre. Here at Nuffield Dental, we pride ourselves of our personalised oral care for each and every one of our patients. We need to make sure you get all the help you need to make your dental procedures comfortable, accessible and seamless.

Our dentists have a special interest in cosmetic dentistry and are accredited dental providers who have been helping patients achieve confident smiles.

Teeth Whitening Costs in Malaysia?

Please call one of our Nuffield Dental clinics in Malaysia for pricing details.

Call +6012 596 1737