Categories
Dental Articles

Dental FAQ Singapore (Article List)

Finding a Dentist in Singapore

Choosing A Dentist In Singapore: 5 Factors

Choosing the right dentist in Singapore involves considering several key factors. Building a good relationship with the dentist and staff fosters trust and personalized care.

Convenience is essential; selecting a clinic near home or work with weekend operating hours ensures regular visits. The dentist’s qualifications and experience matter, with specialists undergoing advanced training and registration with the Singapore Dental Council.

Modern clinics equipped with advanced technology provide efficient and comfortable treatments. Cost is a consideration, but quality of care should take precedence.

Guide to Finding a Dentist in Singapore as an Expat

Gentle Smile Dental Studio provides comprehensive dental care tailored for expatriates in Singapore. The clinic offers a wide range of services, including general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, to address diverse dental needs.

Understanding the unique challenges faced by expats, the studio ensures a comfortable and welcoming environment with experienced professionals.

Conveniently located and equipped with advanced technology, the clinic caters to busy schedules while delivering high-quality care. Our patient-focused approach ensures personalized treatments for a healthy, confident smile.

Invisalign in Singapore

woman in Singapore with invisalign

Teeth Alignment with Invisalign in Singapore

Gentle Smile Dental Studio offers Invisalign treatment in Singapore, a clear aligner system designed to straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing for easier maintenance of oral hygiene and greater flexibility with food choices.

The clinic provides personalized treatment plans using advanced 3D imaging technology to ensure precise teeth alignment. Invisalign is suitable for various dental issues, including crowding, gaps, and bite problems, offering an effective and aesthetic solution for those seeking a straighter smile without the visibility of metal braces.

Invisalign Experience in Singapore: A Guide From Start To End

Our dental studio provide a comprehensive guide to the Invisalign experience in Singapore, from start to finish. The process begins with a consultation, where the dentist evaluates your dental needs and creates a personalized treatment plan.

Using advanced 3D imaging, custom clear aligners are designed to gradually move teeth into the desired position. Patients wear the aligners for 20-22 hours daily, changing them every 1-2 weeks. Regular check-ups are scheduled to monitor progress.

The treatment is discreet and comfortable, with aligners removable for eating and oral hygiene. The result is a straighter, more confident smile without the need for traditional braces.

How Fast Is The Quickest Way To Fix Crooked Teeth?

There are four main methods of fixing crooking teeth in Singapore: Invisalign, traditional braces, jaw surgery, and veneers.

Timelines for each option differ. Veneers are the quickest solution, showing results in as few as two appointments. Invisalign can take six to 24 months, while braces can take one to three years. Jaw surgery is the most invasive option, with a recovery time of two years or more.

Invisalign treatment can also be accelerated with new techniques like light therapy.

What is Invisalign Virtual Care?

Invisalign Virtual Care is a program that allows patients to minimize the number of in-person visits required for Invisalign treatment.

It uses the My Invisalign app and your smartphone to take photos of your teeth that are then reviewed by dental professionals. This allows for more frequent monitoring of your teeth alignment and reduces the need for regular checkups.

We are pleased to say that Invisalign Virtual Care is a complimentary service.

What Is The Perfect Alignment For Teeth?

Here we explore the ideal alignment for teeth.

Straight teeth offer numerous advantages beyond aesthetics. They improve chewing efficiency, reduce the risk of tooth decay by facilitating easier cleaning, and minimize the occurrence of teeth grinding. Moreover, symmetrical teeth contribute to a more balanced and attractive appearance, boosting self-confidence.

Smile Makeovers Singapore

smile makeover in singapore

How To Get Nice Teeth? Dentist Explains

Gentle Smile Dental Studio offers dental veneers, a cosmetic solution to improve the appearance of teeth.

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells, often made of porcelain, designed to cover the front surface of teeth. They are used to address issues like discoloration, chips, gaps, and misalignment, providing a natural-looking and uniform smile.

The clinic ensures that veneers blend seamlessly with natural teeth, offering durability, stain resistance, and a long-lasting aesthetic solution. The procedure is minimally invasive, making it a popular choice for enhancing smile appearance.

Dental Veneers in Singapore

Gentle Smile Dental Studio offers solutions for achieving nice, healthy teeth through personalized treatments. The clinic emphasizes the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells typically made of porcelain, bonded to the front of teeth to correct issues such as discoloration, chips, or gaps. Being durable, stain-resistant, and offering long-lasting results, veneers are an ideal solution for those seeking aesthetic improvements.

To improve the appearance of teeth, other options like teeth whitening and crowns are available. For those with misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatments are also offered.

We use advanced techniques and high-quality materials to deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results, helping patients achieve a confident and radiant smile. Regular care and professional treatments are key to maintaining nice teeth.

Singaporeans are getting a smile makeover for confidence, career and relationships

Gentle Smile Dental Studio provides personalized smile makeovers in Singapore, combining multiple cosmetic dental treatments to enhance the overall appearance of your smile. This process may include teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, orthodontics, and gum reshaping, depending on individual needs.

The clinic’s expert team customizes each makeover plan to address concerns like tooth alignment, color, and shape, aiming for a natural, balanced, and confident smile. The result is a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing smile that enhances both appearance and functionality.

Smile Makeover in Singapore

Gentle Smile Dental Studio offers smile makeovers, a comprehensive approach to enhance the appearance of a person’s smile.

The treatment combines various cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, and orthodontics, tailored to the individual’s needs. The goal is to improve tooth alignment, color, shape, and overall facial aesthetics.

A smile makeover boosts confidence and creates a natural, radiant smile, with results that are both functional and visually pleasing.

Teeth Lamination in Singapore

Gentle Smile Dental Studio offers teeth lamination, a cosmetic solution for improving the appearance of teeth.

Laminates are thin shells, often made of porcelain, bonded to the tooth surface to correct issues like discoloration, chips, or gaps. The procedure enhances the smile’s aesthetics while providing durability and stain resistance.

Teeth lamination is a minimally invasive treatment that delivers a natural-looking, long-lasting result, ideal for those seeking a confident, polished smile.

Whiten Your Veneers With Baking Soda? No! Don’t!

Gentle Smile Dental Studio advises against using baking soda to whiten veneers, as it is abrasive and can damage their surface, leading to dullness and reduced lifespan. Unlike natural teeth, veneers are non-porous and cannot be whitened with over-the-counter methods.

Professional dental care is essential for maintaining veneers, including regular cleanings and polishing to keep them looking bright. The clinic emphasizes proper oral hygiene and professional advice for optimal veneer care.

Teeth Whitening in Singapore

teeth whitening singapore take home kit

Why are my teeth yellow when I brush them every day? Habits Singaporeans can correct.

Yellow teeth can persist despite daily brushing due to factors like diet, habits, and oral care routines.

Gentle Smile Dental Studio explains that consuming staining foods and drinks (e.g., coffee, tea, red wine), smoking, and poor brushing techniques contribute to discoloration. Overbrushing or using abrasive toothpaste can erode enamel, revealing the naturally yellow dentin beneath.

The clinic advises adopting habits like drinking water after meals, using a straw for staining beverages, and maintaining regular dental cleanings to prevent and manage yellowing.

Teeth Whitening

Gentle Smile Dental Studio provides professional teeth whitening services to enhance the brightness of your smile.

Using safe, effective treatments, the clinic removes stains caused by coffee, tea, smoking, or aging. Options include in-office whitening for instant results and take-home kits for gradual whitening at your convenience.

These treatments are tailored to individual needs, ensuring a noticeable, natural-looking improvement in tooth color while maintaining enamel health.

Gummy Smile Treatment in Singapore

Gum Whitening (Gum Depigmentation)

Gentle Smile Dental Studio offers laser gum depigmentation to address dark or discolored gums caused by genetics, smoking, or health factors.

This minimally invasive procedure uses advanced laser technology to safely remove excess pigmentation, revealing lighter, healthier-looking gums.

The treatment is quick, painless, and requires minimal recovery time. Patients benefit from a more confident smile with long-lasting, natural-looking results.

Gummy Smile (Laser Gum Contouring / BTX)

Gentle Smile Dental Studio specializes in gummy smile treatments to enhance smile aesthetics by reducing excessive gum visibility. Causes of a gummy smile include genetic factors, overactive upper lip muscles, or an uneven gum line.

The clinic offers tailored solutions such as laser gum contouring for reshaping gums, Botox injections to relax upper lip muscles, or orthodontic treatments for alignment issues.

These minimally invasive procedures are designed to achieve a balanced, confident smile with lasting results.

Gummy smile treatment in Singapore

Gentle Smile Dental Studio provides effective treatments for gummy smiles, where excessive gum tissue is visible when smiling.

The clinic offers options such as laser gum contouring to reshape the gums, orthodontic solutions, or Botox injections to reduce upper lip movement. Each treatment is tailored to the patient’s needs, ensuring improved smile aesthetics and confidence.

The procedures are minimally invasive, quick, and provide long-lasting results, making them ideal for achieving a balanced and attractive smile.

Ugly black gums? Gum bleaching & whitening in Singapore

Gentle Smile Dental Studio offers gum bleaching and whitening treatments to address dark or discolored gums caused by genetics, smoking, or health conditions.

Using a safe, minimally invasive laser procedure, the clinic lightens gum pigmentation, enhancing the overall appearance of a patient’s smile.

The treatment is quick, painless, and provides long-lasting results, making it an ideal solution for those seeking aesthetic improvements to their gums.

Getting a dental crown in Singapore

dental crown

Ceramic Crowns & Bridges

Dental crowns and bridges at Gentle Smile Dental Studio restore functionality and aesthetics to damaged or missing teeth.

Crowns are custom-made caps, typically used for teeth with significant decay, fractures, or after root canal treatments, to protect and strengthen the tooth.

Bridges replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent healthy teeth, ensuring proper alignment and oral function. Using advanced ceramic materials, the clinic crafts durable, natural-looking restorations.

Crowns and bridges not only improve appearance but also maintain bite balance and prevent further dental issues.

Busy Singaporeans love instant, same-day dental crown

Busy Singaporeans appreciate the convenience of same-day dental crowns offered at Gentle Smile Dental Studio.

Traditional crowns typically require multiple visits, but with advanced CAD/CAM technology, the clinic creates and fits high-quality ceramic crowns in a single appointment. This efficient process involves 3D scanning, precise design, and on-site milling, eliminating the need for temporary crowns.

Same-day crowns save time while providing durability, functionality, and a natural appearance, catering to the fast-paced lifestyles of Singaporeans.

Dental Filling in Singapore

dental filling singapore

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are essential for restoring teeth affected by decay, preventing further damage, and maintaining oral health.

At Gentle Smile Dental Studio in Singapore, the primary materials used for fillings are composite resins and indirect ceramic fillings. Composite resins are tooth-colored materials that bond directly to the tooth structure, offering both durability and aesthetic appeal.

With proper oral maintenance, these restorations can last over a decade. Indirect ceramic fillings, such as inlays and onlays, are custom-made to fit the tooth’s contours and are suitable for moderate-sized cavities, providing a balance between fillings and full crowns. The clinic emphasizes mercury-free restorations, avoiding amalgam fillings that contain mercury.

For patients needing to replace existing amalgam fillings, Gentle Smile Dental Studio follows internationally recognized safety protocols to ensure safe removal and replacement with modern, safer materials.

How Singapore dentists remove mercury fillings and is it worth it?

Gentle Smile Dental Studio explains the safe removal of mercury fillings, also known as amalgam fillings, in Singapore. The process involves using advanced techniques and protective measures to prevent mercury exposure during removal.

The clinic replaces these fillings with biocompatible and aesthetically pleasing alternatives like composite or ceramic materials. Replacing mercury fillings can improve both oral health and the appearance of your teeth.

Patients are encouraged to consult with their dentist to determine if this procedure is suitable for their dental needs and overall health.

Mercury Free Teeth Restoration

Find out about the advantages of using mercury-free fillings and the risks associated with mercury. It also details the process of removing and replacing old mercury fillings.

Mercury-free fillings are made from composite resin or ceramic materials, which are both considered safe and effective alternatives to traditional amalgam fillings.

Composite fillings are also more aesthetically pleasing as they can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. The article also discusses the risks associated with mercury fillings, such as the release of mercury vapor into the air when the fillings are chewed or drilled. This vapor can be inhaled and absorbed into the bloodstream, where it can cause a variety of health problems.

If you are concerned about the risks of mercury fillings, you can talk to your dentist about switching to mercury-free fillings.

Square Jaw Treatment

ideal jawline and square jaws

Square Jaw

Gentle Smile Dental Studio offers non-surgical square jaw reduction treatments using Botox.

This procedure targets the masseter muscles, which can create a square jaw appearance due to overdevelopment. Botox relaxes these muscles, resulting in a slimmer, more contoured jawline over time.

The treatment is minimally invasive, quick, and involves little to no downtime. It’s an effective solution for those seeking a softer, balanced facial aesthetic without surgery.

Square jaw treatment in Singapore for more confidence & better teeth

Gentle Smile Dental Studio provides square jaw treatment in Singapore to enhance facial aesthetics and improve dental health.

The treatment uses Botox to relax overdeveloped masseter muscles, which can cause a broad or square jawline. This minimally invasive procedure results in a slimmer, more proportionate face shape while alleviating issues like teeth grinding or jaw tension.

With little to no downtime, the treatment offers a quick and effective way to boost confidence and support better oral health.

General Dentistry in Singapore

gentle smile dental studio dr kelvin chua

Dental Cleaning

Regular dental cleanings are vital for maintaining oral health, preventing issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

At Gentle Smile Dental Studio in Singapore, it’s recommended to undergo teeth cleaning every six months to remove plaque and tartar buildup. The procedure involves scaling and polishing to eliminate deposits, followed by a fluoride application to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.

The clinic offers a comprehensive package that includes a dental check-up ($50), scaling and polishing ($150), and fluoride application ($40).

Patients often find the experience relaxing, reclining comfortably during the treatment. Regular visits ensure early detection of potential issues and promote long-term oral hygiene.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a durable solution for replacing missing teeth, designed to function and appear like natural teeth.

At Gentle Smile Dental Studio in Singapore, implants are crafted from titanium or ceramic and surgically embedded into the jawbone. Advanced technology, including 3D x-rays (CBCT) and intra-oral scans, enables precise placement using surgical guides. A dental implant comprises three parts: the prosthesis (visible tooth-like part), the abutment (connector), and the fixture (implant embedded in the jawbone).

Our clinic also utilizes Swiss-made Straumann implants, known for their safety and durability since 1974, offering materials like Roxolid—a titanium-zirconium alloy providing enhanced strength and bone preservation. Alternatives to implants include dental bridges and dentures; consulting with our dentists can help determine the most suitable option.

General Check-Up

Our clinic offers a wide range of dental services, including general checkups, dental cleanings, fillings, root canals, wisdom tooth removal, and emergency treatments.

We also offer a variety of cosmetic procedures, such as Invisalign, smile makeovers, BTX, laser gum contouring, teeth whitening, gum whitening, dental veneers, and square jaw treatment.

We are located in the city center, in both Millenia Walk and Orchard, and is open on Saturdays for the convenience of their patients.

With a team of experienced and qualified dentists and hygienists, we are is committed to providing high-quality care to their patients and uses the latest technology and techniques.

Low Radiation Dental X-Ray

Gentle Smile Dental Studio offers dental X-ray services to provide a detailed view of oral structures, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

X-rays help detect issues like cavities, gum disease, and impacted teeth that may not be visible during a routine exam. The clinic uses modern, low-radiation technology to ensure patient safety and comfort.

Regular dental X-rays are an essential part of preventive care, enabling early detection and effective management of oral health concerns.

Tooth Extraction

Gentle Smile Dental Studio provides professional tooth extraction services for cases where a tooth is damaged, decayed, or causing overcrowding.

The clinic ensures a safe and comfortable procedure using modern techniques and local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Aftercare instructions are provided to promote healing and prevent complications.

Tooth extraction may also be recommended as part of orthodontic or restorative treatments, ensuring optimal oral health and function.

Accident & Emergency Dental Services

Gentle Smile Dental Studio provides emergency dental care to address urgent issues such as severe toothaches, broken teeth, or dental trauma.

The clinic prioritizes immediate treatment to relieve pain, prevent complications, and restore oral health. Common emergencies include abscesses, knocked-out teeth, and damaged restorations. Patients are encouraged to contact the clinic promptly for same-day appointments.

Gentle Smile’s experienced team ensures swift and effective care, offering peace of mind during dental emergencies.


Categories
Dental Articles

How Fast Is The Quickest Way To Fix Crooked Teeth?

When it comes to fixing crooked teeth, the speed of the process largely depends on the severity of the misalignment and the specific treatment method chosen. There are four primary methods available: 

For those with minor crooked teeth, veneers offer the quickest solution with results seen in as little as two appointments.

In cases of intermediate crookedness, wearing clear aligners like Invisalign, can typically straighten teeth within a timeframe of six to 24 months. In a minority of cases, you could see results in four months.

However, for individuals with severely crooked teeth or significant bite issues, jaw surgery may be necessary. After the surgery, you will likely need to follow up with Invisalign or braces, which means the complete treatment will add up to two years or more.

What are crooked teeth

Three aspects make up nice-looking teeth: colour, alignment and shape.

Colour

teeth colour in perfect smile makeover

Alignment

teeth alignment in a smile makeover

Teeth that have a gradual taper and regular-spaced gaps look pleasant.

Veneers can create a more pleasant visual aspect of your teeth by smoothing lines and creating uniform gaps.

Shape

teeth shape in a smile makeover

Uniformity and symmetry create harmony in your smile.

Sometimes, due to damage or genetics, we have teeth that don’t mirror well.

In this case, a veneer can create symmetry and uniformity.

People perceive you to have crooked teeth due to poor alignment and inconsistent shape of your teeth such as inconsistent gaps, jutting teeth and inconsistently angled teeth.

So, there are two aspects that we must fix: alignment and shape

Issue causing crooked teethSolutionTimelines
Teeth alignmentVeneers (minor)2 appts
Teeth alignmentInvisalign 6 – 24 months
Teeth alignmentBraces12 – 36 months
Teeth alignmentJaw surgery (major)>2 years
Teeth shapeVeneers2 appts

Veneers

  • Corrects teeth shape
  • Minor alignments

Veneers are the quickest option for those looking to correct the shape of their teeth or address minor misalignments. By applying thin layers of porcelain or composite resin to the front surface of the teeth, veneers can create a uniform appearance and reduce inconsistencies in tooth shape. This method can produce results in just two appointments, and to ensure suitability to your preferences, we have a trial process for you to test out whether you like the colour of your veneers before committing.

Invisalign

  • For most teeth alignment cases

Invisalign, on the other hand, is designed for a broader range of alignment issues and can be a quicker and more flexible alternative to traditional braces. 

While braces typically take anywhere from one to three years to complete the alignment process, Invisalign can often achieve similar results in six to 24 months. 

One of the major advantages of Invisalign is its removability, allowing you to take the aligners off for special occasions like weddings and other photo opportunities, or to maintain your regular dental hygiene routine. While braces require the use of special interdental brushes and often restrict certain foods, Invisalign aligners can be taken out, making it easier to clean your teeth and enjoy your favourite meals.

Speeding up Invisalign treatment with new techniques

We’ve been keeping up with research on how to accelerate cell turnover so that teeth can be straightened quicker. Areas like using vibration, light therapy, ultrasound stimulation (piezotome) are studied with promising results. They can reduce treatment time by about 30 to 60 per cent, which means a treatment that requires two years can be shortened to one year or so. 

Gentle Smile Dental Studio uses a light therapy device called PBM Ortho. The mouthpiece has LEDs that emit 850-nanometre near-infrared light that encourages increased cell turnover allowing quicker teeth movement. What you’d need to do is to use the mouthpiece for four-minutes per day per arch. 

In ideal situations, PBM Ortho can speed up how fast you move onto the next aligner from 8.5 days to three days. The limiting factor for teeth movement will be the rate at which the cells turnover. Excessive forces and movement too quickly can lead to loss of structure in the bone and tooth, which is why we closely monitor all Invisalign treatments, and with Virtual Care, you’re able to update your progress from home.

Braces

  • For severe crooked teeth alignment cases

Braces may be the go to for some dentists for more severe malocclusion. There are also dentists who are equally competent in treating severe malocclusion with Invisalign.

The bigger advantage of braces is that it’s in the mouth all the time, while for Invisalign it can be removed and requires you to place the aligner back on. The removable nature of Invisalign means that the effectiveness of the treatment depends significantly on the patient’s commitment to wearing the aligners as instructed, whereas patients with braces don’t face this issue as braces are not removable.

Though braces may be more cumbersome, they are highly effective at treating even the most challenging cases of misalignment.

Jaw surgery

  • For cases where Invisalign or braces won’t fix the misalignment

In the most extreme cases, where neither Invisalign nor braces can adequately correct the problem, jaw surgery may be recommended. 

This surgical procedure is typically necessary for patients with severe overbites, underbites, or other jaw-related issues that cannot be resolved through orthodontic treatments alone. 

Jaw surgery not only repositions the jaw for a better bite and less wear on the teeth but can also enhance the overall appearance of your smile by reducing a gummy smile and improving facial symmetry. However, it is a significant procedure that involves downtime and dietary changes during recovery.

For more dental questions answered, have a look at our Dental Article Glossary.

Categories
Dental Articles

What Is The Perfect Alignment For Teeth?

Creating a pleasant smile requires your teeth to have good colour, shape and alignment as shown in the graphic below:

Colour

teeth colour in perfect smile makeover

Alignment

teeth alignment in a smile makeover

Lines that gradually taper look pleasant.

Lines that suddenly jut up and down look stark.

Further to that, regular-spaced gaps between teeth also create a pleasant appearance.

Veneers can create a more pleasant visual aspect of your teeth by smoothing lines and creating uniform gaps.

Shape

teeth shape in a smile makeover

Uniformity and symmetry create harmony in your smile.

Sometimes, due to damage or genetics, we have teeth that don’t mirror well.

In this case, a veneer can create symmetry and uniformity.

We have more information about the colour and shape aspects of crafting a perfect smile here, so in this article, we’ll solely focus on how we achieve the ideal alignment for your teeth. 

The benefits of having well-aligned teeth include having aesthetically-pleasing teeth that give you a harmoniously aligned, symmetrical and balanced smile that complements your facial aesthetics. Our patients generally want to boost their self-confidence and to make their smile a focal point of their self-expression.

The other reason involves teeth longevity due to good dental characteristics. Well-aligned teeth can help you reduce grinding, poor chewing and remove opportunities for food to get trapped between teeth.

Ideal Teeth Alignment

Ideal teeth alignment is characterised by several key attributes. First and foremost, there should be no pain, pressure, or signs of wear on specific areas of the teeth. This reflects the principle that form is equal to function; well-aligned teeth not only look aesthetically pleasing but also function more effectively.

In an ideal alignment, the upper teeth should slightly overlap the bottom teeth. However, this overlap should not be excessive, as that would result in an overbite. 

Proper alignment ensures that the upper teeth fit well into the lower teeth, which helps reduce issues such as grinding or poor chewing. Additionally, symmetrical upper and lower jawlines contribute to a balanced and harmonious appearance, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.

Imperfect Bites

Here’s a video showing the different imperfect bites:

crossbite invisalign

Crossbite: A misalignment where upper teeth sit inside lower teeth when biting, causing potential jaw and tooth issues.

crowded teeth invisalign

Crowded Teeth: Insufficient space in the jaw causing teeth to overlap, leading to misalignment and dental hygiene challenges.

gap teeth invisalign

Gap Teeth: Spaces between teeth, resulting from missing teeth or irregular dental arches.

openbite invisalign

Open Bite: Front upper and lower teeth don’t meet when biting, causing speech and chewing difficulties.

underbite invisalign

Underbite: Lower teeth protrude beyond upper teeth, causing an abnormal bite relationship and possible functional issues.

overbite invisalign

Overbite: Upper teeth excessively cover the lower teeth, potentially leading to jaw problems and aesthetic concerns.

As you can see, these imperfect bites don’t have the alignment, symmetry and balance required for a smile that Singaporeans would consider aesthetically pleasant. They can also cause dental issues down the line.

Achieving The Perfect Aesthetic Alignment

If your goal is to have good-looking teeth, consider this scenario. You start your alignment process and then a few months later you have a wedding to attend. Could even be your wedding – alignments take months to years and somewhere in between your partner could propose to you. What will you see in the photos – teeth (with Invisalign removed) or teeth with braces?

Achieving the perfect aesthetic alignment of teeth is often a blend of art and science, requiring orthodontic interventions such as Invisalign or braces. The choice between these two methods depends on the specific needs and lifestyle preferences of the patient, but only with Invisalign can you remove them whenever you want.

Braces

That’s not to say braces don’t have a place in alignment treatments – braces are typically used for more severe corrections. They stay in the mouth at all times, ensuring continuous alignment pressure. This consistency is particularly beneficial for patients who might struggle with the discipline required for removable aligners. However, braces require meticulous cleaning with special brushes, and sometimes teeth need to be removed to create space for the brackets.

Invisalign

Invisalign, on the other hand, offers a less invasive and more convenient alternative. These clear aligners have advanced significantly over the years, with some clinicians now comfortable using them to treat even severe misalignments without the need for traditional braces. 

One of the greatest advantages of Invisalign is the ease of maintaining oral hygiene. Because the aligners are removable, patients can brush and floss their teeth without obstruction, reducing the risk of plaque build-up and decay. 

The treatment timeline for Invisalign typically ranges from 6 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the case. Patients usually have virtual checkups weekly and in-person appointments every 10 to 20 weeks to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments

Perfect Alignment Means Good Dental Characteristics

Good dental characteristics are integral to both oral health and overall well-being. 

Reduced Tooth Wear And Damage Risk

One of the primary benefits of properly aligned teeth is the reduction in tooth wear and damage. When teeth are well-aligned, the forces exerted during chewing are distributed evenly, preventing pressure points that could lead to fractures or chips.

Easier To Maintain Dental Hygiene

Moreover, well-aligned teeth are significantly easier to clean and floss. Misaligned teeth often create hard-to-reach areas where food particles can get trapped, making it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene. This can lead to plaque growth, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Proper alignment, therefore, simplifies the daily routine of brushing and flossing, contributing to healthier teeth and gums.

Helps Jaw Function

Correct alignment of the teeth reduces strain on the jaw, which can cause temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. TMJ disorders can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. 

Furthermore, correct alignment allows for proper jaw functioning, reducing the tendency to grind teeth (bruxism). Teeth don’t grow back and hence protecting your teeth from unnecessary wear is important.

For more dental questions answered, have a look at our Dental Article Glossary.

Categories
Dental Articles

Whiten Your Veneers With Baking Soda? No! Don’t!

While baking soda might work well for natural teeth, we don’t advise you to use it to whiten your veneers.

You can find baking soda really easily in NTUC, Cold Storage and other supermarkets. Unlike what its name suggests, baking soda has many purposes outside of baking! As an abrasive, you can use it to clean your toaster, bathroom and sinks that have stubborn stains.

However, the level of abrasion is too intense for a material like composites and porcelain dental veneers. 

What is Baking Soda?

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a weak alkali powder known for its abrasive properties. If you go online, you can find people advocating for use in dental care because it can effectively remove surface stains from natural teeth. 

However, its abrasiveness poses a significant downside. Prolonged use of baking soda can lead to scratches on the enamel of natural teeth, exacerbating staining issues. 

Furthermore, baking soda lacks the ability to whiten deep stains, a task that professional chairside treatments handle more effectively.

Baking Soda And Abrasives Don’t Do Well With Dental Veneers

Dental veneers, unlike natural teeth, are not porous. They require specific care to maintain their appearance. 

Whitening toothpastes and over-the-counter teeth whitening kits are designed for natural teeth and their ability to absorb substances. Baking soda, being a harsh abrasive, is intended for removing tough stains and grime from surfaces like kitchen counters and bathroom tiles. 

When used on veneers, baking soda can wear down a veneer’s surface quickly and potentially damage the dental cement that secures the veneer to the natural tooth.

Ideal Care for Dental Veneers

To ensure the longevity and brightness of dental veneers, you should use a gentle toothpaste that does not contain harsh abrasives. Additionally, avoiding staining foods and drinks such as tea, curry, and coffee can help prevent discolouration

If consuming these foods, it’s advisable to use a straw and rinse your mouth with water immediately afterwards.

How to Whiten Dental Veneers

smile makeover with porcelain veneers

You can’t whiten dental veneers. Hence its important to have the veneer colour done right before its done/placed on. As part of the smile makeover with ceramic veneers, we emphasise on colour selection and get our patient to trial with different veneer colour. 

The cement has a role to play and without going into too much detail, light cure resin cement colour is more stable compared to dual cure resin cement. We follow dental development and advances to keep ourselves up to date. 

Bonus: Baking Soda as Mouthwash?

While baking soda is not suitable for whitening veneers, it does have one acceptable use in oral care. 

A small amount of baking soda (about one teaspoon) mixed with tap water can serve as an effective mouthwash. Its alkaline properties help neutralise the acidic environment in the mouth, thereby preventing tooth decay. Take note that this is just a supplement to regular brushing and flossing and not a replacement. Neither should you use it to whiten your teeth!

But as a busy Singaporean, you might want to consider buying a ready-made mouthwash instead. We recommend choosing a Xylitol-based mouthwash because of its ability to prevent decay.

For more dental questions answered, have a look at our Dental Article Glossary.

Categories
Dental Articles

Teeth Lamination in Singapore

Teeth Lamination in Singapore

When Singaporeans think of lamination, we’d probably think about putting a certificate in a plastic wrap.

In dentistry, the concept remains similar. We put a dental veneer over your teeth to make up for the flaws in colour, shape and alignment.

Colour

teeth colour in perfect smile makeover

Alignment

teeth alignment in a smile makeover

Lines that gradually taper look pleasant.

Lines that suddenly jut up and down look stark.

Further to that, regular-spaced gaps between teeth also create a pleasant appearance.

Veneers can create a more pleasant visual aspect of your teeth by smoothing lines and creating uniform gaps.

Shape

teeth shape in a smile makeover

Uniformity and symmetry create harmony in your smile.

Sometimes, due to damage or genetics, we have teeth that don’t mirror well.

In this case, a veneer can create symmetry and uniformity.

How do dental veneers work?

Dental veneers are shells that we place on the front of your teeth. They are thin and we customise every dental veneer to match your dental profile.

Teeth lamination represents an important aspect in developing a confident smile because you might be born with teeth that aren’t perfect. You might also have teeth that cannot be revitalised or repaired. Some examples include,

  • You have heavily-stained teeth due to habits like coffee drinking, eating curries or smoking. These stains fail to respond to teeth whitening.
  • You chipped or broke your teeth due to an accident or hard biting
  • You were born with misaligned, uneven or misshapen teeth
  • You grind your teeth while sleeping, leading to unevenness

Teeth Lamination Provides Renewal

As dentists, it’s easier for us to remove material than to create material, especially when cosmetic considerations are involved.

Think of it this way – if your front teeth are chipped, it’s challenging to make touch-ups because the touch-ups have no surface area to hold on to. Furthermore, repairs will stand out because of their distinct colour.

Teeth lamination provides a one shot, “one times good one”, way of fixing your colour, shape and alignment issues. 

We broadly do teeth lamination in three steps: examine, customise, complete.

Dental veneers help you cover up cosmetic imperfections in your teeth. Here’s the process.

Examination

dental veneer process

At your first visit, we will examine the best way to create harmony in your smile.

Customisation

dental veneer gets moved in place

Between appointments, a dental laboratory will create your customised dental veneer.

Perfection

dental veneer helps create a nice smile

At your second visit, our dentists will apply a special cement to bond the veneer onto your teeth.

During your first visit, we will examine your teeth and if we determine that your smile will improve through dental lamination, then we’ll proceed to do the necessary preparation like cleaning, repairs, scans and sending the order to our lab.

Once those veneers come back from the lab, we will invite you for a second visit where we will bond these veneers to your teeth.

Teeth Lamination Has Limitations

At Gentle Smile Dental Studio, teeth lamination represents a single tool in our smile makeover toolkit. 

Once we examine you, we will explain how we’d attempt to rejuvenate your smile. For example, while teeth lamination can solve mild misalignment, we might recommend Invisalign for more severe misalignments.

In the same vein, we might suggest a chairside whitening treatment if your stains can be managed using this quicker method that requires no modification to your teeth.

We might also determine that your dental profile isn’t suited to dental veneers. One reason is that you have a thin enamel layer. Teeth lamination requires removing some enamel, which can affect the tooth’s structural integrity, bonding strength, and sensitivity.

Care Required Beyond Teeth Lamination Treatment

Shells are permanently bonded to your teeth and therefore you will need to take care to maintain the longevity in your new smile.

You should continue practising good dental hygiene as laminates can develop decay and cavities. You should also avoid eating hard or crunchy foods like nuts because a cracked or damaged dental veneers are difficult to repair or replace.

Teeth Lamination Characteristics

Here are some facts about using dental veneers in the teeth lamination process:

  • Our dental veneers are made from porcelain or composites.
  • They have a lifespan of up to 15 years for porcelain veneers.
  • Composite veneers are more affordable with half the lifespan of porcelain veneers. We use them in less complicated cases.
  • Each veneer costs $700 – $2,000. A smile makeover takes several veneers.
  • A typical veneer is between 0.5 to 1 mm in thickness, with the thinnest veneers being 0.2 to 0.3 mm.

Your journey starts here.

Categories
Dental Articles

How To Get Nice Teeth? Dentist Explains

I’ve been a cosmetic dentist for many years now and sometimes I get asked what a nice smile looks like. There’s no template answer because we have to customise it for you.

It comes down to genetics. You look different from me because we have different facial proportions, bone structures and natural teeth.

I have learnt a lot about crafting a smile for people and it generally comes down to three aspects: shape, alignment, colour.

The interplay of these three aspects is also the reason why we have a photo studio, as we consider all smile makeovers in the context of facial appearance.

As part of our smile makeovers, we give you a physical Trial Smile that you can wear and see the difference. We customise the Trial Smile with the Digital Smile Design software that simulates how you will look after treatment.

Shape: Cosmetic Teeth Reshaping

teeth shape in a smile makeover

When you smile, you want people to perceive you as friendly, warm and inviting. Shape conveys this meaning.

Let’s demonstrate the other extreme. If you have seen how vampires and dangerous animals look on TV, they exhibit sharp incisors ready to gnaw at their foes.

We don’t want that. Instead, we want a harmonious, proportional and gentle line flowing over your teeth. 

Let’s look at each aspect and the associated techniques to improve it.

  • Dental veneers are custom-made porcelain or composite resin veneer shells to correct shape issues such as chipping, unevenness, and gaps. 
  • Dental implants mimic natural teeth, filling gaps from lost teeth to restore shape and symmetry
  • Bioclear: a composite filling to reduce black, triangular gaps between your teeth.

Alignment: Veneers and Invisalign

teeth alignment in a smile makeover

Alignment also speaks to creating a balanced and symmetrical smile. We use techniques like veneers and Invisalign to align teeth that are angled forward or backward.

For minor misalignments, dental veneers can create the appearance of straighter teeth without resorting to orthodontic treatments. 

For larger misalignments, we use Invisalign to realign your teeth.

Colour: Professional Teeth Whitening

teeth colour in perfect smile makeover

Daily brushing might not keep your teeth white especially if you consume tinting foods and drinks like curry, coffee or wine. 

It’s here that you need to use stronger, prescription-only teeth whitening techniques to remove the yellow stains on your teeth.

Gentle Smile Dental Studio has an in-chair teeth whitening service as well as a take-home kit. These techniques are much stronger than any consumer-level teeth whitening solution and therefore results are much more noticeable.

Not all stains respond well to teeth whitening, and sometimes, you need a ceramic veneer to brighten teeth to a desired shade. Veneers are particularly helpful if you have a tooth that does not respond well to whitening and stands out as yellow.

For more dental questions answered, have a look at our Dental Article Glossary.

Categories
Dental Articles

Guide to Finding a Dentist in Singapore as an Expat

Expats from all around the world come to Gentle Smile Dental Studio and stay as our patients for their time in Singapore because we have these differentiating factors:

  • We are a full-service clinic for you and your family
  • We are conveniently located in the city centre
  • We serve patients on Saturdays
  • We are culturally sensitive with respect to privacy and preferences
gentle smile dental studio dentist lobby

We understand that different people come from different dental cultures and we are committed to ensuring care and sensitivity towards your privacy and preferences. Our expat clientele comes from China, Indonesia, the UK, Canada, the USA, France, Germany, Russia and Australia. 

Our clinic’s guiding philosophy is “Your Smile, Gently Crafted“.

Range of Services

We have a range of cosmetic and family dentistry services which mean we can sculpt your smile as well as repair imperfections. Each clinician has a distinct specialisation in our clinic.

Our founder, Dr. Kelvin Chua, started off building dentures at a public institution and has a passion for aesthetics and restorative procedures including:

  • Clear aligners like Invisalign
  • Gum contouring
  • Smile makeovers
  • Square jaw treatment
  • Dental veneers, crowns, bridges and implants
  • Mercury removal
  • BTX
dr kelvin chua dentist gentle smile dental studio singapore

Dr. Kelvin Chua

Clinical Director

“Every patient is unique and deserves an empathetic understanding of their concerns.”

Dr. Chua is a member of the International College of Dentists Fellow and Align Faculty. He has also trained under Dr. Derek Mahony’s Full Face Philosophy course, a three-year orthodontic program.

Dr. Chua’s colleague, Dr. Annabelle Tong, is a dentist who focuses on family dentistry procedures such as:

  • Clear aligners like Invisalign
  • Teeth whitening
  • Root canal therapy
  • Wisdom teeth removal
  • Crown and bridges 

Dr. Annabelle Tong

Dentist

“My passion is for you to have a pleasant, comfortable treatment experience, for you to want to come back!”

When you visit us for a regular checkup, you’ll see our dental hygienist, Winnie Tan, who will help you upgrade your dental hygiene. Winnie focuses on preventive dentistry like:

  • Scaling and polishing
  • Preventing caries
  • Education on brushing, flossing and dental hygiene.
Winnie Tan dental hygienist

Winnie Tan

Dental Hygienist

“I provide gentle care to every smile, filled with warmth, care and a genuine sense of belonging.”

If you call us (9321 3232) or WhatsApp us, you’ll interact with Kylie, our customer service expert. She will help you book an appointment, answer your questions, help you with billing and other aspects. We have experience with dealing with insurance like Cigna, Allianz, Raffles Insurance and several others.

Price List

Aesthetic Treatments

TreatmentEstimated cost (SGD)
Invisalign4,500 – 8,500
Smile Makeover350 – 20,000
BTX350
Laser Gum Contour250+ per tooth
Teeth Whitening350 – 950
Gum Whitening250 (single tooth)
950-1,500 per jaw
Dental Veneers700 – 2,000 individually
Square Jaw300 – 500

General Services

TreatmentEstimated cost (SGD)
General Check-up50
Dental Cleaning130 – 170 (excluding check-up fee)
Dental Fillings200 and up
Root Canal850 to 1,450
Wisdom Tooth Removal250 – 350 (extractions)
950 – 1,250 (surgical removal)
Mercury-Free Dentistry200 – 500
Emergency TreatmentsCall us: +65 9321 3232
Tooth Extractions250 – 350 (extractions) 
950 – 1,250 (surgical removal)
Dental ImplantsCBCT (3D X-Ray) – $350
Straumann Implant with crown: around 4,500
Dental Crowns2,000 (traditional)
2,500 (same-day)
Dental BridgesStarts at 5,500

What If I Move Away From Singapore?

If you leave Singapore, rest assured we have a process to transfer treatment notes and X-ray scans to your next dentist. We comply with Singapore’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) regulations. While you are here, your records do not leave our care unless you consent to sharing them.

We also use the most up-to-date techniques and tools such as Straumann implants from Switzerland, which has a global supply network used by dentists all around the world. This means your future treatment will be portable from us to your next port of call.

Your Smile, Gently Crafted

We are centrally located in the city centre, a few steps from Promenade MRT and access to our Millenia Walk clinic is 100% sheltered. There is also a taxi stand nearby and ample parking for visitors. In addition to regular hours during the work week, we are open from 9 am to 1 pm on Saturdays for your convenience.

For more dental questions answered, have a look at our Dental Article Glossary.

Categories
Dental Articles

What is Invisalign Virtual Care?

Gentle Smile Dental Studio uses Invisalign Virtual Care as part of our Invisalign process. Virtual Care involves using your smartphone and the My Invisalign app to take photos that will be reviewed. The benefits are:

  • More teeth alignment monitoring touchpoints
  • Fewer in-clinic visits
  • Take Virtual Care photos at your convenience

Prior to Invisalign Virtual Care, in-clinic visits were scheduled for every six weeks. With Virtual Care, those visits are now between 10-20 weeks per visit. 

Plus, you can take the photos at any time, including after work, during your lunch break or even when you are overseas on holiday. Whereas traditionally, you will have to attend an in-clinic visit at a specific time. 

You will also receive feedback and monitoring every week, compared to the past when the only opportunity for feedback was every six weeks during the in-clinic visit.

Invisalign’s makers, Align Technology, created Virtual Care in March 2020, when the pandemic made visiting the dentist difficult. We adopted it a few years ago, and it has since become a cornerstone of our Invisalign practice.

How Does Invisalign Virtual Care Work?

Every week when it’s time to move onto the next aligner, you will send photos of your teeth to us using the My Invisalign app. Our dental hygienist, Winnie Tan, will review the photos you send and provide feedback.

As part of our onboarding process, our team will show you how to take photos. We could offer you a cheek retractor or a Invisalign Lens smartphone attachment that will help you with photo taking. The app will also help you get the right shot for our analyses.

We will look for signs that your teeth alignment is going well such as whether your teeth are following the ClinCheck treatment plan. If all is good, you will be notified to move onto the next set of aligners.

We will also look for red flags like attachment loss and tracking issues. When detected, we will send you a personalised treatment modification such as:

  • Stay with the current aligners
  • Move to the next stage
  • Make an appointment for an in-clinic visit

Does Invisalign Virtual Care Cost Extra?

Your only cost might be for the Invisalign Lens or cheek retractor. Virtual Care itself is complimentary.

Gentle Smile Dental Studio does not charge extra for the Virtual Care service due to its highly-automated platform. If you have a modern, mainstream smartphone, it’s more than likely you will be able to take the photos required.

For more dental questions answered, have a look at our Dental Article Glossary.

Categories
Dental Articles

Choosing A Dentist In Singapore: 5 Factors

We believe Singaporeans should know how to pick a dentist to ensure good dental health decades from today.

If you don’t already have a regular dentist, consider these five most important factors:

  • Relationship
  • Convenience
  • Skill
  • Equipment
  • Subsidies

Relationship

private dentist dental checkup

Do you get along with your new dentist and the dental team?

The whole team matters.

These people will play an important role in your dental care, and you will benefit from building a relationship with them.

A noticeable amount of dentistry relies on an onboarding process that involves X-rays and also knowing the history of the dental procedures you have undertaken.

Abandoning a relationship with a dentist translates to a lot of unknowns that need to be uncovered with your next dentist.

Since you might have to entrust the dentist to a complicated procedure in the future, trust becomes very important. Some areas that we actively try to improve upon are:

  • Responsiveness to patients who contact us
  • Taking time to understand your preferences
  • Understanding why a smile is important to you, and how to improve it.

We are very result oriented and we want to ensure we deliver the results that was promised. See our Google Reviews.

Convenience

gentle smile dental studio

More common initial issues like dental decay and early gum disease have no pain until it is at the advanced stage. At that stage, complex treatment like root canal or extraction may be the most judicious solution to the problem.  

Regular visits to the dentist every four to six months can help me to prevent disease progress to the later stage where more complex and more expensive treatment is necessary.  

For Singaporeans, removing this barrier to entry becomes a question of how much effort and time you’ll need to visit the dentist. There are two points to consider:

  • Is the clinic near my home or workplace?
  • Are they open on the weekends?

At Gentle Smile Dental Studio, we service customers on Saturday for Singaporeans who can’t get to us during the work week. 

At the same time, we are also located in Millenia Walk, which makes it easy for people working in town to visit us. 

Skill

The whole dental team matters and when it comes to your teeth, the two key roles are the dentist and the hygienist.

An oral health hygienist focuses on preventive dentistry such as:

  • Scaling, polishing
  • Root planing
  • Gum maintenance
  • Caries prevention to prevent decay

In Singapore, all dentists carrying the title “Dental Surgeon”, “Dentist” or “General Dental Practitioner” must be registered with the authorities. Qualifying dentists must be trained locally or a graduate from one of the 89 universities overseas. Dentists tend to focus on:

  • Restoring teeth with fillings, crowns or surgery
  • Improving quality of life with aesthetics
dr kelvin chua giving a lecture on laser dentistry

Our founder, Dr. Kelvin Chua, had many years of experience at a large aesthetic clinic and  is also an international lecturer who has spoken on aesthetic, laser and digital dentistry in Malaysia, Cambodia, South Korea and Singapore. 

Equipment

premium dental tools in singapore

Not all dental clinics use the same equipment, and this can affect your comfort and experience.

For example, a more traditional way of getting a dental impression is to use a mushy, clay-like material that gets moulded in your mouth. However, a modern dental scanner allows a dentist to wave a wand to get a 3D view of your teeth.

itero 5d dental scanner

Gentle Smile Dental Studio uses these equipment:

  • iTero intraoral scanner
  • Panoramic X-rays
  • CBCT (3D Dental X-ray)
  • Invisalign Virtual Care

Subsidies

For budget conscious Singaporeans, the most affordable way to see a dentist is through the polyclinic system as you can enjoy subsidies. The other option is to visit a private clinic that accepts your CHAS card subsidies.

Gentle Smile Dental Studio is a fully private clinic and our patients tend to have insurance that covers their visits, which our concierge can bill directly. With us, you are guaranteed to have control over your appointments and being a boutique dental clinic, you could be treated by the same dentist.

Gentle Smile Dental Studio is a fully private clinic and some of our patients have insurance that covers their visits. We have experience with dealing with insurance like Cigna, Allianz, Raffles Insurance and several others. 

With us, you are guaranteed to have control over your appointments and being a boutique dental clinic, you could be treated by the same dentist.

For more dental questions answered, have a look at our Dental Article Glossary.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are coverings made from high-quality dental materials like tooth-coloured composite or porcelain, designed to fit over the front surfaces of teeth.

Residents in Singapore who need a way to solve imperfections in their teeth can look towards dental veneers as a way to enhance their appearance.

What cosmetic issues can dental veneers solve?

The three aspects of a beautiful smile are colour, alignment and shape. Veneers play an integral part in enhancing the harmony in these three elements to form a coherent, pleasant smile.

Colour

teeth colour in perfect smile makeover

Alignment

teeth alignment in a smile makeover

Lines that gradually taper look pleasant.

Lines that suddenly jut up and down look stark.

Further to that, regular-spaced gaps between teeth also create a pleasant appearance.

Veneers can create a more pleasant visual aspect of your teeth by smoothing lines and creating uniform gaps.

Shape

teeth shape in a smile makeover

Uniformity and symmetry create harmony in your smile.

Sometimes, due to damage or genetics, we have teeth that don’t mirror well.

In this case, a veneer can create symmetry and uniformity.

How do dental veneers work?

Dental veneers help you cover up cosmetic imperfections in your teeth. Here’s the process.

Examination

dental veneer process

At your first visit, we will examine the best way to create harmony in your smile.

Customisation

dental veneer gets moved in place

Between appointments, a dental laboratory will create your customised dental veneer.

Perfection

dental veneer helps create a nice smile

At your second visit, our dentists will apply a special cement to bond the veneer onto your teeth.

Get to Know Your Dentist

dentist kelvin chua giving a talk about short teeth syndrome

Hi, I’m Dr. Kelvin Chua

I am the clinical director for Gentle Smile Dental Studio.

My clinic’s goal is to help you craft a smile that you can feel confident about.

To give you a pleasant and gentle experience, I attend conferences to keep up with the latest methods and technology.

Since 2017, I have lectured regionally in Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, and South Korea on aesthetics, laser dentistry and digital dentistry.

Get in touch and we’ll discuss how to craft your perfect smile!

dr kelvin chua dentist gentle smile dental studio singapore
gentle smile dental studio dentist dr kelvin chua

Timelines And Procedures

Creation of dental veneers takes two appointments.

We use the iTero 5D scanning technology to create scans of your mouth.

Prior to this technology, the only option was filling your mouth with a mushy clay-like mould to create an impression.

itero 5d dental scanner

First appointment

At your first appointment, we will examine the state of your teeth and gums. Any cleaning or repairs that we need to do will be handled at this stage.

Then, we will prepare your teeth to receive your veneer. We will use our iTero 5D scanning tool to create a 3D representation of your teeth.

Using the scan, we’ll make an order for your customised veneers. If necessary, we will bond a set of temporary veneers.

Once you’re done with the appointment, you can resume regular activities. There is no disruption to your daily lifestyle.

dental staff explaining dental veneers

Second appointment

At this appointment, you will receive the new smile you have been waiting for.

Your teeth will be cleaned and prepared for bonding of the veneers.

With your new set of veneers, you can enjoy eating and drinking right after the treatment.

dental veneers created

Types of dental veneers

Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are aesthetically pleasant and have the longest lifespan of 10-15 years.

Porcelain is more dynamic and we employ them in more complex restorations.

Porcelain veneers are also known as ceramic veneers.

Composite veneers

Dental-grade composite resins are used in these veneers.

Their advantage is that they are more affordable than porcelain veneers and we can use them in less complex cases.

If you are doing a smile makeover, which requires multiple units, composite veneers can make the procedure much more affordable.

Their lifespan of between 5-8 years is about half of porcelain veneers.

Removable veneers

This class of veneers are the cheapest option and require little to no preparation but are not recommended for long-term use and may not look as natural​

How to get Natural Looking Veneers?

Some important steps in our process that help you achieve ideal colour, alignment and shape are:

  • Creating a plan using a 3D representation of your teeth.
  • Use of temporary veneers to trial out your preferences in colour and overall appearance (position of veneer and shape of veneers) 
  • Using colour-stable cement to ensure colour uniformity over time
  • Ensuring proper placement and alignment before fixing the veneer in place

Initial Consultation and Digital Scanning

gentle smile dental studio consultation with dentist dr kelvin chua

Your journey to a new smile begins with an initial consultation, where we create a 3D representation of your teeth, which is essential for designing your custom veneers that fit your dental structure.

Choosing A Natural-Looking Veneer Colour

smile makeover with porcelain veneers

Next, a key step in our process is the placement of temporary veneers if necessary. This allows us to find the most suitable colour for your veneers. 

If you judged your preferences in our clinic, it’ll give you a limited view of how your veneer would look in other environments. Most clinics use soft white lighting, which biases your perception towards a more soft white look. 

You will perceive your veneer’s colour differently when you’re in the sun, in the shade, in an office building with fluorescent lighting or at home with your lighting setup.

Since colour perception varies from person to person, and location to location, we like to start with a lighter shade and see what you think. If it doesn’t work for you, we move one level up in tint.

Through this trial process, you can gather information about your preferences and this helps you narrow down your preferred colour.

We Use A Colour-Stable Cement

When you return for the second meeting, that’s when we implement the permanent veneer with the colour that you have chosen.

The next variable involves the cement used. There are fundamentally two types: one that cures when we shine a light on it (light-cure) and another that sets from the moment we mix it together (dual-cure).

We almost always use light-cure cement in veneers because they are more colour stable over time. This means it does not go grey or yellow as easily as dual-cure cement. Therefore, over the veneers’ lifespan, you will see much better colour consistency between the cement and the veneer.

Creating Harmony In Alignment And Shape

smile makeover in singapore

So far, we’ve talked a lot about colour, but remember there are two other elements to creating a natural-looking set of veneers: alignment and shape.

We’ve determined the ideal shape of your veneers in our first meeting, when we did the scan of your teeth. 

The biggest change we can do at the second meeting involves alignment, and light-cure cement also allows us to position your veneer without the pressure of time because this cement requires light to cure it. 

At this juncture, we are paying attention to how your veneers sit with other parts of your teeth. 

  • Do they match up with your natural teeth? 
  • Is there harmony and consistency in the lines?

Light-cure cement allows us to check for alignment consistency. Once we’ve confirmed that it’s OK, we will shine a light that sets the cement.

So, this shows our methodology to create natural-looking veneers for the next 10 – 15 years of your veneer’s lifespan. It all goes back to the fundamental principle of creating harmony in colour, shape and alignment.

What does it cost to get dental veneers in Singapore?

Dental veneers cost $700 -$2,000 individually, depending on the material used.

If you are looking to do a full-mouth makeover using porcelain veneers, they might require multiple units and cost between $6,000 to $20,000. For a more comprehensive approach to your new smile, you might be interested in a smile makeover.

How to clean and care for Dental Veneers

How Long Do Veneers Last?

The longevity of veneers largely depends on the type of material used and the individual’s oral care habits.

  • Porcelain Veneers: These are the gold standard for dental veneers due to their durability and natural appearance. With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10–15 years or even longer in some cases. Their high resistance to staining and wear makes them an excellent long-term investment.
  • Composite Resin Veneers: While more affordable and quicker to apply, composite veneers typically have a shorter lifespan of around 5–7 years. They are more prone to staining and chipping compared to their porcelain counterparts.

Factors That Affect Veneer Lifespan:

  1. Teeth Grinding: Excessive grinding or clenching (bruxism) puts stress on veneers, causing cracks or dislodgement.
  2. Oral Hygiene: Poor oral care can lead to decay around the veneers or gum recession, compromising their fit and appearance.
  3. Diet: Consuming staining foods or hard items can wear veneers prematurely.

Tips for Veneer Care

Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the appearance and functionality of veneers. Here are some expert tips to help you maximize their lifespan:

  1. Use Non-Abrasive Toothpaste
    Regular toothpaste can be too abrasive for veneers, especially if it contains harsh whitening agents or baking soda (see why we don’t recommend baking soda!). Switch to a non-abrasive toothpaste specifically formulated for dental restorations. These products protect the veneer surface while keeping your natural teeth clean.
  2. Avoid Biting Hard Objects
    Habits like chewing on ice, pens, or hard candy can chip or crack veneers (Especially not chili crab shells!). Even though porcelain veneers are highly durable, they are not immune to physical damage. If you have a habit of biting on non-food items, consciously avoid it to prevent unnecessary stress on your teeth.
  3. Minimize Staining Foods and Drinks
    While porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, composite veneers are more prone to discoloration. To keep your smile bright, limit your intake of staining substances like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sodas. Rinsing your mouth with water after consuming these can help reduce staining.
  4. Wear a Mouthguard
    If you participate in sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard is crucial. Custom-fitted guards not only protect veneers but also shield your natural teeth from damage. Nightguards are especially beneficial for those who clench or grind while sleeping.
  5. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
    Routine dental visits are essential for maintaining veneers. During checkups, your dentist will:
    • Ensure the veneers are securely bonded.
    • Polish them to maintain their natural luster.
    • Address any early signs of damage or decay around the veneers.

Why Proper Maintenance Matters

Investing in dental veneers is an investment in your smile, confidence, and overall quality of life.

While veneers are designed to be durable, neglecting proper care can significantly shorten their lifespan. For example, failing to address gum recession can expose the edges of veneers, making them susceptible to damage. Similarly, poor oral hygiene increases the risk of decay around the veneer margins, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you can extend the lifespan of your veneers and maintain a flawless smile. If you’re unsure about specific care routines or need personalized advice, consult your dentist for tailored recommendations.

Summary

Dental veneers enhance smiles by improving colour, alignment, and shape.

The process includes a 3D scan, temporary veneers for colour testing, and using colour-stable cement for long-lasting results.

Taking good care of your dental veneers will ensure they look and feel their best for years to come

gentle smile dental studio dentists hygienist

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have to get veneers on all teeth?

Veneers can be applied to as few or as many teeth as needed for your desired aesthetic. You will generally need multiple veneers if you are seeking a smile makeover.

How much is it for dental veneers?

Per unit, about $700 – $2,000, depending on the material used for your veneer.

Do you still need to go to the dentist with veneers?

Dental veneers require daily hygiene maintenance and have a lifespan of up to 15 years for porcelain veneers.

Are dental veneers permanent?

Yes and no. Porcelain and composite veneers are fixed in place permanently, but do have a limited lifespan. Porcelain veneers last longer while composite veneers have a shorter lifespan.

How are dental veneers installed?

It takes two sessions. In the first session, we prep and scan teeth, and order your veneer. In the second session, we bond the veneers to your teeth.

Book An Appointment

Scan the following QR code to WhatsApp us or email us with the link below.

gentle smile dental studio contact

Gum Whitening (Gum Depigmentation)

Getting those perfect pink gums

The ideal healthy gum colour is always thought to be pink and firm, not brown, red or swollen.

To keep your teeth and gums healthy is choosing to eat the right foods, including celery, carrots and apples and adding fruits into your healthy diet, as well as practising good oral hygiene and regular cleaning.

There’s no denying that maintaining a healthy diet is just as important as keeping your gums pink and healthy if you want to enjoy a beautiful smile.

However, what your gum colour is, can say a lot about your health. When your gums are in poor condition, it’s an indication that your health may be, too. 

What leads to darker gums?

Patients who have darker gums are either genetic or commonly associated with heavy smoking, or showing signs of periodontal disease, or just that they may have a weaker immune system. Poor immune system is the result of bacterial growth.

How Does Gum Bleaching Work?

At Gentle Smile Dental Studio, we offer gum whitening (gum depigmentation), which is a safe and effective method of destroying the cells that produce melanin, and leave behind pink new tissue in place for your gums.

The procedure will require local anaesthesia and pain relief medications after treatment to ease any discomfort. 

This treatment is for Singaporeans who are worried about their gum colour.

Our aesthetics dentist will assess your gum during the consultation and offer you the right treatment to help you achieve a pink and healthy gum again.

Gum Whitening Costs and Timelines

Cost

The cost of the gum whitening treatment will vary depending on the degree, depth and location of the discolouration.

Each patient will have to be analysed on a case-by-case basis to determine how much treatment they require.

The cost ranges from $250 for a single tooth to cases where the whitening extends to the whole arch may range from $900 – $1500 per arch.

Timelines

The procedure generally takes less than an hour depending on the colour and size of the dark patch.

Next Steps

The first step is to set up an initial consultation.

During this visit, Dr Kelvin Chua will do an oral assessment for you to ensure the gums are in good health before we proceed for the treatment.

gentle smile dental studio

Get to Know Your Dentist

dentist kelvin chua giving a talk about short teeth syndrome

Hi, I’m Dr. Kelvin Chua

I am the clinical director for Gentle Smile Dental Studio.

My clinic’s goal is to help you craft a smile that you can feel confident about.

To give you a pleasant and gentle experience, I attend conferences to keep up with the latest methods and technology.

Since 2017, I have lectured regionally in Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, and South Korea on aesthetics, laser dentistry and digital dentistry.

Get in touch and we’ll discuss how to craft your perfect smile!

dr kelvin chua dentist gentle smile dental studio singapore
gentle smile dental studio dentist dr kelvin chua
gentle smile dental studio dentists hygienist

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of gum whitening?

The cost ranges from $250 for a single tooth to $1,500 for a whole arch of teeth. Whitening an arch may range from $900 – $1500 per arch.

How do laser depigmentation procedures help gum bleaching?


Laser depigmentation targets melanin in the gums, removing dark spots and revealing a pinker, even-toned appearance, effectively bleaching hyperpigmented gum tissues.

Can I do gum whitening at home?

There are no home remedies. Gum whitening requires professional equipment and expertise. Attempting at home can lead to injury or ineffective results. Always consult a dentist for such procedures.

How long does the gum whitening laser treatment take?

The procedure generally takes less than an hour depending on the colour and size of the dark patch.

Book An Appointment

Scan the following QR code to WhatsApp us or email us with the link below.

gentle smile dental studio contact

Smile Makeover in Singapore

Hi, I’m Dr. Kelvin Chua. Let me introduce you to our Smile Makeovers.

We are constantly appearing publicly in the limelight these days – in Instagram, in photos shared on WhatsApp, and on websites, in addition to classic face-to-face meetings. 

People can sense our confidence in a single glance. Are you someone who won’t ever smile and show your teeth?

Many of us aspire to get great teeth and the good news is that Gentle Smile Dental Studio can help you get teeth that are straight, proportional and white.

What Are Smile Makeovers?

Smile makeovers use a layered approach to create your ideal smile.

The main techniques used include multiple veneers and teeth whitening.

This involves looking at our teeth’s shape, colour and alignment.

What creates a pleasant smile?

Shape

The aesthetics of a smile are deeply influenced by the harmony and proportion of the teeth, with shape playing a pivotal role in creating that perfect visual appeal. 

A beautifully shaped tooth not only complements the facial features but also ensures a balanced and symmetrical appearance, which is often perceived as more attractive. 

Dental veneers, thin custom-made shells crafted from porcelain or composite resin, offer an effective solution to enhance or correct the shape of teeth. 

By adhering these veneers to the front surface of a tooth, we can artfully redesign the smile, rectifying issues like chipping, unevenness, or undesired gaps. 

Beyond veneers, you might consider getting dental implants which help mimic natural teeth in function and aesthetics. By filling gaps from lost teeth, implants restore the overall shape and symmetry of a smile, ensuring it remains balanced and visually appealing. 

teeth shape in a smile makeover

Alignment

A harmoniously aligned set of teeth not only contributes to optimal oral function but also plays a pivotal role in aesthetic appeal. Misaligned teeth can detract from the natural beauty of a smile, often leading to decreased self-confidence and reluctance to smile openly. 

Proper alignment ensures that each tooth occupies its ideal position, creating a symmetrical and balanced appearance. This symmetry, in turn, enhances the overall facial aesthetics, making the smile a focal point of beauty and expression. 

Dental veneers can effectively mask minor misalignments, making teeth appear straighter without orthodontic treatment. They’re custom-made to fit over the front surface of teeth, instantly correcting gaps, overlaps, or slight twists. 

For more pronounced alignment issues, Invisalign can help physically move and realign the teeth.

teeth alignment in a smile makeover

Colour

The colour of our teeth can significantly influence perceptions of beauty, health, and youth. 

If you want perfectly white teeth, ceramic veneers can not only reshape but also brighten teeth to a desired shade, ensuring a consistently white smile. 

Alternatively, teeth whitening procedures can effectively lift away stains and discolorations, rejuvenating one’s smile.

At Gentle Smile Dental Studio, we have prescription-only kits that can significantly help you restore brightness to your teeth.

teeth colour in perfect smile makeover

Get to Know Your Smile Makeover Dentist

dentist kelvin chua giving a talk about short teeth syndrome

Hi, I’m Dr. Kelvin Chua

I am the clinical director for Gentle Smile Dental Studio.

My clinic’s goal is to help you craft a smile that you can feel confident about.

To give you a pleasant and gentle experience, I attend conferences to keep up with the latest methods and technology.

Since 2017, I have lectured regionally in Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, and South Korea on aesthetics, laser dentistry and digital dentistry.

Get in touch and we’ll discuss how to craft your perfect smile!

dr kelvin chua dentist gentle smile dental studio singapore
gentle smile dental studio dentist dr kelvin chua

How To Get A Smile Makeover?

Step 1: We begin by understanding what you hope to improve about your smiles. 

Step 2: We formulate the most balanced smile based on your gum-to-teeth proportions, with a primary focus on how your teeth can be improved. 

Step 3: We create a customised plan to ensure that our smile analysis aligns with your expectations.

Step 4: We provide a preview using Digital Smile Design (DSD) software which allows you to get a visual simulation of your final smile before commencing treatment.

Step 5: Trial Smile 

At the end of your consultation, we will create your Trial Smile. 

A Trial Smile is something you can wear and have a preview of how you will look after your smile makeover with us.

The Trial Smile is a removable, reversible physical mockup which you will place over your teeth.

Components In A Smile Makeover

There are three main components to getting a smile makeover: realign, brighten, reshape.

Realign ✓

This process involves straightening out incongruent or overlapping teeth.

In a Smile Makeover, realignment can be done with an Invisalign treatment, which involves placing a comfortable, see-through plastic aligner that adjusts teeth progressively.

This results in orderly and clean teeth for a graceful smile.

Brighten ✓

Over time the choices of food and drink such as coffee, smoking, and even age can lead to staining or discolouration of teeth.

This can be fixed with a brightening treatment, as it cleanses off the superficial stains to deeper stains.

Gentle Smile Dental Studio offers a take-home kit or an in-clinic brightening treatment.

Reshape ✓

Over time, your teeth will inevitably get worn down.

Smile Makeover utilises a few techniques to correct misshapen teeth starting with simple bonding which hides the damage caused to the teeth’s shape, colour and size.

Bonding uses composite resin which is known to accurately replicate human teeth.

This enhances your smile with minimal orthodontic inconvenience.

The next option involves choosing between composite or porcelain veneers based on the digital visualisation of your desired smile, which allows you to give your prototype smiles a trial run before finalising your permanent smiles. 

Types Of Smile Makeovers

Smile makeovers generally use 8-10 units of veneers, which are meticulously bonded to the front of your teeth, creating harmony and elevating your smile.

Ceramic Veneers

smile makeover with veneers

Composite Veneers

ceramic veneers singapore

Supplementary techniques

Invisalign

gentle smile invisalign treatment in singapore

Teeth Whitening

teeth whitening singapore dentist

Removing Silver/Mercury Fillings

mercury filling singapore replacement

Implants

dental implants singapore

Is A Same-Day Smile Makeover Possible?

Smile Makeover Costs In Singapore

Smile makeovers are a layered service.

Costs vary widely from $350 to $20,000.

As smile makeovers are a layered service, every person’s costs would vary based on how comprehensive the smile makeover is.

Dental veneers play a central role in a smile makeover. A single dental veneer runs from $700.

Since a smile makeover uses at least six units, therefore a smile makeover involving them would run between $6,000 to $20,000.

On the other hand, if your teeth have great shape and alignment, but have been stained over the years, then you might only need to get a teeth whitening service done. Teeth whitening starts from $350 to $950.

gentle smile dental studio dentists hygienist

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a smile makeover?

Smile makeovers help you achieve your ideal smile using various dental methods.

Types of smile makeovers

Gentle Smile Dental Studio will use various methods to achieve your perfect smile, including Invisalign, teeth whitening, ceramic veneers, implants and removing silver-mercury fillings.

Smile makeover cost in Singapore?

The cost of a smile makeover varies for each individual depending on the extent of the procedures involved. A set of veneers runs between $6,000 to $20,000, aiding in reshaping the smile for those desiring to show more teeth. Conversely, if the teeth are well-shaped and aligned but stained, a teeth whitening service ranging from $350 to $950 may suffice.

How long does a smile makeover take?

Dealing with minor discoloration requires a simple, quick visit for a teeth whitening session to attain a brighter smile.
However, more extensive treatments like implants, crowns, or veneers necessitate a longer wait; dental crowns can be a same-day solution, while others might take about two weeks to achieve the desired smile. For individuals requiring a complete realignment, the process is much longer, spanning around 6 months to two years.

Book An Appointment

Scan the following QR code to WhatsApp us or email us with the link below.

gentle smile dental studio contact

Categories
Dental Articles

Invisalign Experience in Singapore: A Guide From Start To End

A lot of people want to feel more confident when they smile but they don’t know what’s involved to get them to the goal.

But it’s frankly very straightforward and easy with Invisalign.

Let’s walk you through the Invisalign experience, starting from what happens when you approach us for a consultation.

A Five-Step Pre-Invisalign Experience

invisalign singapore patient journey timelines

At Gentle Smile Dental Studio, your pre-Invisalign experience can be split into five steps.

By the end of the fifth step, you will have all the information you need to make a decision on whether you want to go through with the Invisalign procedure.

Step 1: Registration

Gentle Smile Dental Studio’s admin team will gather some essential information from you, such as your contact details and dental history.

Step 2: Smile Analysis with Treatment Coordinator

Once you’re all registered, it’s time to dive deeper into your smile goals.

You’ll meet with our knowledgeable treatment coordinator, who will take the time to listen to your concerns and discuss your desired outcomes.

This step is crucial because it allows us to understand your specific dental needs, answer any initial questions you may have, and create a personalised treatment plan just for you.

Step 3: Digital Scan with iTero and Photo Taking

photo studio at gentle smile dental singapore for invisalign

Gone are the days where tech-savvy dentists use a clay-like compound to create dental impressions.

Instead, Gentle Smile uses iTero to create a digital impression instead. iTero is a digital tool that captures a virtual scan of your teeth. The scanner allows us to create a 3D image of your smile, which is not only incredibly accurate but also a much more comfortable experience.

Then, you’ll go into the photo studio where our dental professionals will analyse your smile relative to your face.

Here’s the thing. Even with perfect teeth, your smile might not be perfect for your facial proportions. A lot goes into crafting the perfect smile including symmetry, alignment, tooth proportion, spacing, width and gum health and gum line.

With information from the photo studio, Dr. Kelvin Chua can help you craft a smile that syncs with your facial proportions, giving you better confidence every time you smile.

Step 4: Consultation with Dr. Kelvin Chua

Finally, you will meet Dr. Kelvin Chua, who will assess your suitability for Invisalign.

As a dentist, Dr. Chua has been inducted into Align faculty. Align is the parent company that produces Invisalign. This allows you to receive the most up-to-date treatments and innovations on Invisalign. Also, Dr. Chua lectures for Align on topic of Invisalign and digital scanning. Dr Chua has been an Invisalign Platinum Provider since 2016.

invisalign dentist dr kelvin chua

Dr. Chua will carefully review your digital scans and photos, discuss your treatment plan in detail, and answer any additional questions you may have. This consultation is an opportunity for you to gain a deeper understanding of how Invisalign will work for you and to address any concerns or doubts you might have.

Step 5: Post-Consult and FAQs

After your consultation with Dr. Chua, your treatment coordinator will run through treatment fees and also address some frequently asked questions to ensure you have all the knowledge and confidence to navigate your treatment journey smoothly.

Only if you decide to go forth with this, then we’ll collect payment, which can range from $4,500 to $9,000 with most cases falling within the $5,500 to $7,500 range.

After you have made payment, you will be asked to come into the clinic in about two weeks to view the ClinCheck (Invisalign simulation). At this stage, we will inform you how many aligners you will need in order to achieve the end goal. We will also share with you if we need to do any related procedures like attachments and sandpapering.

Once you agree to the ClinCheck plan, you will get your first aligners in about two weeks.

Experience Living With Invisalign

Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise: Invisalign is shiong (intense).

When you on the Invisalign journey, you’ll know it involves a significant commitment. You have to wear Invisalign for about 20-22 hours a day, which will change the way you enjoy food and beverages.

In the few hours that you take the aligners off, you will have to keep an eye on it. Not that it has legs or anything, but sometimes people think it’s rubbish! Countless times waiters have swept it up with used tissue paper…

For traditional clinics, you will have to visit your dentist every six weeks, so make sure to plan for these visits.

Luckily, our dental studio actually uses Virtual Care that allows more frequent monitoring from the comfort of your home. Through your phone or tablet, you’ll take photos and get your progress monitored every week. Dr. Chua will advise you on when you need to come in for a visit, but visits are generally 10-20 weeks apart, compared to six weeks at traditional clinics.

Is Invisalign Painful?

OK, let’s not sugarcoat it. Invisalign puts a force on your teeth so that it can gradually achieve alignment.

Every set of aligners helps you achieve a milestone in that journey. The problem is that every time you wear a new set of aligners, you are the furthest away from that milestone.

Meaning you’ll deal with some pain.

But tahan!

Remember that it gradually gets better over time. Plus it’s not the kind of stabbing pain that will cause you to scream.

Rather, it’s a dull force that you will eventually get used to, especially over the next few days after wearing your new set of aligners. To be fair, if you got braces, you will also experience the same type of discomfort. No force, no alignment!

Temporary speech impediment

Also, you might also notice your speech being affected. Will I have a modified voice for the next year?

Luckily, no.

Yes, it’s a foreign object in your mouth, but you will get used to it after the initial couple of days. Dr Kelvin Chua advises new patients to speak slower and louder in the initial days until I get used to it.

This is a one-off challenge some Invisalign users experience, meaning you aren’t likely to experience the same thing when you get a new set of aligners.

Lifestyle changes with Invisalign

You should expect some changes to your daily routine when you are undergoing the Invisalign process.

These changes might come as a shock at the beginning of the process, but you will gradually adapt to it.

One big change involves eating. After eating, you will have to maintain a high level of oral hygiene.

Some have noticed that they snack a lot of less because of Invisalign and therefore it can help you avoid unhealthy and unnecessary empty calories. Over time, these temptations start to dull so it becomes a lot easier.

Luckily, it’s easier to maintain oral hygiene with Invisalign compared to people using braces. With Invisalign, you can brush and floss as per normal because it’s removable. Braces require you to re-learn how to brush and floss because the braces get in the way.

Besides eating and drinking, Invisalign has almost no effect on your daily life. You can continue enjoying sports and enjoying the usual activities that you used to do.

And the transparent Invisalign means you can smile as usual!

Post-Invisalign Experience

Once you are done with the final retainer, you will have a smile that is similar to the one set out in your ClinCheck Invisalign simulation.

Your teeth will look straighter with more even spacing and reduced crowding. If you have any misaligned bite such as an overbite, underbite or crossbite, that would be fixed. In other words, you will feel more confident when smiling.

At this stage, you still have a role in maintaining your newfound look.

From Aligners to Retainers

Once your Invisalign treatment is completed, Dr. Kelvin Chua will typically recommend wearing retainers. Retainers help maintain the new position of your teeth and prevent them from shifting back. You may need to wear your retainers for an extended period, initially for around 20 hours a day and later transitioning to wearing them only at night.

Proper care of your retainers is essential to keep them in good shape. Clean your retainers regularly with water or specialised cleaning tablets designed for retainers.

Take your retainers out when eating, and after finishing a meal, brush your teeth and rinse your retainers before putting them back in your mouth.

Ready for Invisalign?

Gentle Smile Dental Studio welcomes you to book a consultation to assess how your Invisalign journey will look like.

Categories
Dental Articles

Singaporeans are getting a smile makeover for confidence, career and relationships

Many Singaporeans get their photo taken every day by cameras on mobile devices but not everyone feels confident about their smiles.

When we smile, we want to express friendliness, confidence and energy. However, we might not have the perfect set of teeth that can exude these characteristics.

As a result, some people do not smile in photos or actively avoid taking photos. Underlying this involves a lack of confidence in their smiles.

The good news is that getting a smile makeover in Singapore is easy, comfortable and you can even preview your perfect smile.

Do you hesitate when you want to smile?

woman grinning

Getting a smile makeover is increasingly important these days especially if you have to meet a lot of people daily or have a public-facing role like being an influencer, public speaker or video host.

One way to know whether or not your smile is holding you back is to test whether you have to actively suppress your smile. For example, if you want to smile wide with your teeth showing, but somehow your logical brain tells you to hold that back and only move your lips.

This happened to British TV presenter Saira Khan who felt self-conscious when she smiled which led her to seek a smile makeover treatment involving Invisalign. She told Dentistry UK that,

‘I am finally going to get my teeth straightened and gain the confidence to smile without feeling self-conscious or nervous’, she said.

‘I love smiling and laughing, but have found that in photographs I don’t smile as much and tend to keep my mouth closed and cover up my teeth.

Saira was 45 when she did the treatment, which reflects an increasing trend of career-oriented people looking to improve themselves as they succeed in their careers.

What is a smile makeover?

When we look at people, we can unconsciously know who would be considered attractive.

It might seem like it’s magic and unexplainable, but there’s actually a science to it involving proportionality, symmetry and alignment.

For example, smiles that expose too much gum (over 3mm) tend to be rated as a less-attractive smile. Darker gums and yellow teeth also rate lower in attractiveness.

Dentists know the signs to look out. At the initial consultation, dentists will find out what your goal is and then select the appropriate treatment.

This may involve a combination of different treatments, including teeth whitening, dental veneers, dental implants, and orthodontic treatments such as braces or clear aligners.

The three principles of a smile makeover are, “Realign, Reshape and Brighten”.

Here are the most common procedures involved in a typical patient’s smile makeover.

Teeth straightening with braces or Invisalign

Singaporeans can mistakenly associate teeth straightening with the braces that some of their peers wore during primary and secondary school. It might look very out-of-place for a career professional in their 30s and beyond.

However, one of the most popular cosmetic teeth straightening options is clear aligners, such as Invisalign. Clear aligners are custom-made trays that fit over the teeth and gradually shift them into the desired position. These aligners are virtually invisible and can be easily removed when you don’t want to be seen with them.

Another option for cosmetic teeth straightening is traditional braces, which involve metal brackets and wires that are affixed to the teeth. For adults, braces do have their place in dental treatment because they are more effective at tackling complex cases of misalignment.

In addition to improving the appearance of the teeth, cosmetic teeth straightening can provide other benefits as well. For example, straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of developing cavities and gum disease. Straight teeth can also improve the function of the jaw and reduce the risk of jaw pain or other discomfort.

Veneers

Dental veneers are the “touch ups” to teeth that bring perfection to your smile makeover.

Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite material to the front surface of the teeth to enhance their appearance.

Smile makeovers use veneers to address a range of cosmetic issues, including chipped, stained, or uneven teeth, as well as gaps or misalignments.

Veneers are designed to match the natural color and shape of the teeth, providing a seamless, natural-looking result. They are custom-made to fit each patient’s teeth and with proper care and maintenance they can last for many years.

Implants

Dental implants are primarily used to replace missing teeth and enhance the appearance of a smile.

They blend into natural teeth well because they are shaped to look like natural teeth and also matched to suit the colour of the rest of your teeth.

As the perfect smile requires a coherent set of teeth, dental implants provide a durable, long-lasting solution for missing teeth that can help to restore a patient’s confidence in their smile.

Updating old silver fillings with natural-coloured fillings

If you had dental fillings done in Singapore a long time ago, you might still have some grey-coloured fillings made of a dental amalgam (also known as a “mercury filling” or “silver filling”).

These fillings are a blemish in what would be perfectly white teeth but the good news is that they are easily updated to a more modern, more naturally-coloured filling,

Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening can bring the shine out of your smile, which is why a lot of Singaporeans opt for it as part of their smile makeovers.

Dentists have access to special tools that can whiten your teeth beyond what you can do with whitening strips or toothpastes.

In order for teeth to sustain its brightness, we recommend you to avoid drinking tinting liquids, quit smoking and ensure regular dental hygiene.

How we create your Trial Smile

While every dentist has their own approach, this following represents the approach we have been using for almost a decade.

We start with our consultation that ends in the creation of a Trial Smile.

  1. To start, it is essential to comprehend what the client wants to enhance about their smile.
  2. We create a balanced smile that takes into account the client’s gum-to-teeth ratio with a particular emphasis on improving their teeth.
  3. After confirming that our analysis of the smile aligns with the client’s goals, we develop a personalized plan.
  4. We use Digital Smile Design (DSD) software to offer a preview that enables the client to visualize the final outcome before commencing their orthodontic treatment.

After these four steps, we create a physical Trial Smile that you can wear and have a real life preview of how you will look after the procedures recommended.

Your trial smile is a removal and reversible physical mock up where we put the designed smile over the real teeth

Timelines for a smile makeover

A smile makeover’s timelines vary depending on the procedures that you need in order to achieve the smile that you liked in your Trial Smile.

If your teeth are simply yellowing but are otherwise in perfect condition, then whitening them takes almost no time. One sitting at the dentist and you are out.

If you need implants, crowns or veneers, then your timelines lengthen to up to two weeks. With some procedures like dental crowns, this can be sped up with a same-day crown.

If your teeth need realignment, then the timelines would be about 18 months to two years before your perfect smile arrives.

Experience a smile makeover at our clinic

In this video, our dentist, Dr. Kelvin Chua talks about how he consults and interacts with his smile makeover patients.

If you are curious about whether we can help you enhance your smile, book an appointment with us now!

Otherwise, for more dental questions answered, have a look at our Dental Article Glossary.

Categories
Dental Articles

Why are my teeth yellow when I brush them every day? Habits Singaporeans can correct.

Most Singaporeans don’t realise that their daily habits are one of the biggest reasons why they have yellow teeth despite keeping up with their dental hygiene.

Think of it this way: if you drink bubble tea once a year, the effects of the high-sugar drink will be negligible.

However, if you do it multiple times a week, it will have a significant effect on your weight, health and wallet!

Maintenance of teeth is the same. If you are the type of Singaporean who starts their day with a cup of kopi-o or smokes multiple times a day, you might be accelerating the staining of your teeth.

Luckily, with a change in habits and some professional dental help, you can get great pearly whites that you will feel confident about when you smile.

Reason 1: Your diet involves a lot of staining foods

If you have eaten a curry dish like laksa or roti prata, you might have stained your shirt with the gravy.

Notice how difficult getting curry stains off your shirt. It’s even worse when you’ve just stained a white shirt.

Among the many foods and drinks Singaporeans consume, curry, coffee, tea, wine represent some of the most staining foods out there.

The same logic applies to teeth. When you consume staining foods and drink, your teeth will naturally get tinted. These are called extrinsic stains.

If you have removed blood from a shirt, you’ll know that the quicker you do it, the more effectively you can remove the stain.

Extrinsic stains are the same. As they are mostly surface-deep, they can be treated by regular brushing and rinsing after a meal.

Regular cleaning is effective to remove extrinsic stains.

Reason 2: You smoke

Smoking is damaging to your teeth because of how nicotine causes deep yellow stains.

By itself, nicotine doesn’t have any colour. However, when mixed with oxygen, such as when you inhale, it becomes yellow and stains teeth.

Unlike stains caused by food and drinks, nicotine discolouration can appear spotty or in clusters. Food-related stains are more uniform.

People who smoke many cigarettes a day will generally see this pattern of discolouration much quicker as their teeth encounter nicotine much more frequently.

Reason 3: Your brushing needs an upgrade

Are you using the right technique to ensure that you are brushing every part of each tooth?

Poor brushing techniques that miss areas will allow surface stains to get embedded into a deeper layer the called the enamel.

On the same note, brushing too hard will wear your enamel away which will reveal the dentin, which is naturally yellow in colour.

Most Singaporeans struggle to remove stains and plaque in harder-to-reach areas such as the near the gumline and on the rear teeth.

Having some guidance on how to brush effectively will help you more effectively control stains over the long term.

Reason 4:Your genes and you

Some people are luckier in that they have thicker enamels and others have thinner enamels.

Enamel is the whitest part of our teeth with deeper layers being darker and yellower.

Unfortunately, time causes wear on enamel, even if you are on-the-ball with brushing and dental check-ups.

This does mean that everyone will have teeth that look yellower as time passes, but some are luckier to have their white teeth last longer.

How can I get whiter teeth at home?

You have decent control over the yellowing of your teeth, and with a combination of adopting sustainable habits at home and seeking professional dental help, you can have great pearly whites that will give you the confidence when you smile.

Habit 1: Use a whitening toothpaste

If you haven’t given much thought to your toothpaste, now’s the time to invest in a whitening toothpaste.

A whitening toothpaste has a special formulation that goes beyond what a regular toothpaste can do such as:

  • Polishing abrasives
  • Chemicals like peroxide to remove stains

They are great as a quick way to upgrade your dental hygiene regimen. They remove external stains effectively. Combined with regular and thorough brushing, you can stop external stains from developing further into the tooth.

The abrasive particles in whitening toothpaste help to whiten the teeth but it also roughen the teeth surface resulting in more stain to be trapped on the surface of the teeth.

What about teeth-whitening kits?

Teeth whitening kits and services offered by non-dental professionals aren’t likely to work due to one major reason:

Gahmen.

The MOH only permits dentists to have access to the full-powered whitening agents that can really get to the core of teeth that have become intrinsically yellow.

Whitening agents used in unregulated kits have a maximum concentration of 0.1 per cent.

The low concentration avoids any severe problems that come from user error, but this is far too low for any meaningful effect.

To put it into context, our clinic has access to whitening kits with up to 45% concentration of bleaching agents.

Find out more about teeth whitening here.

Habit 2: Brush effectively and regularly

Make sure you are doing these:

  • Not brushing too hard, which wears down the enamel
  • Using a soft toothbrush to protect the enamel
  • Floss daily
  • Brush with the right technique to ensure all areas of your teeth are covered
  • Visit a dentist every 4-6 months. A dentist can advise you of your brushing quality

Bad habits you have to stop now!

Of the many DIY methods to whiten your teeth, here are some that might seem effective but are incredibly damaging over the long term.

Using acidic citrus fruit to “sand” your teeth

You might have heard the suggestion to rub orange peels or lemon on your teeth to whiten your teeth.

This is very, very bad for your enamel. Remember, your enamel is non-renewable!

Acid interacts with enamel and wears it down.

It’s similar to taking sandpaper to a very thin piece of wood. Within years, you’ll have nothing to sand.

Sure, you will see improvement of your teeth’s colour. Until the day when there’s no more enamel to erode.

Your enamel is precious and it’s the only layer that can sustain a white colour.

If you believe drinking soft drinks is bad for your teeth, then it’s equally bad to subject your teeth to a fruit’s acid.

Baking soda guarantees to shorten your enamel’s lifespan

If you have a severe stain on your stove, toaster oven or countertop, you might turn to baking soda to remove that stain.

So why shouldn’t you use it on your teeth?

Just like the problem of using acidic fruits to whiten your teeth, you are basically wasting away the precious layer of enamel.

Baking soda is extremely abrasive. When used on appliances, there’s no problem because these appliances are replaceable and probably made of a harder material than baking soda.

Enamel isn’t replaceable and is rather soft. Remember that harsh brushing can degrade your enamel.

Categories
Dental Articles

Busy Singaporeans love instant, same-day dental crown

Singaporeans love the same-day dental crown because it saves time, energy and reduces time off work and from your personal schedule.

There’s a case for both a same-day crown and a traditional crown, so let’s get an understanding of what’s best for you.

Is the same-day crown right for you?

The biggest advantage to choosing a same-day crown is time. Here’s a quick comparison:

​Same-dayTraditional
Timelines1 dayA few days to weeks
Appointments12
MaterialsCeramic/porcelainVarious, including metal alloy
DurabilityHighHigh
CostSimilarSimilar
ColourNaturalNatural or metallic

A same-day crown is generally preferred if you,

  • Only want to see a dentist once
  • Are OK with ceramic/porcelain as a crown material
  • The tooth you are crowning is suitable for a same-day crown

You only want to see a dentist once

A same-day crown is extremely quick in comparison to a traditional crown.

A same-day crown takes a few hours from start to finish, and a good portion of it involves the 1+ hour for the fabrication of your crown.

Here’s a breakdown of the steps for a same-day crown:

Appointment 1

  1. Initial dental work to shape tooth for incoming crown
  2. Imaging and evaluation
  3. Fabrication of the same-day crown
  4. Testing, adjustment of same-day crown
  5. Cementing of same-day crown

Let’s see the steps for a traditional crown:

Appointment 1

  1. Initial dental work to shape tooth for incoming crown
  2. Taking an impression for the permanent crown
  3. Creating a temporary crown
  4. Implanting temporary crown and finalisation
  5. Impression for permanent crown gets set to external lab for fabrication

Wait for permanent crown (a few days to a few weeks)

Appointment 2

  1. Removal of temporary crown
  2. Testing, adjustment of permanent crown
  3. Cementation of permanent crown

You are OK with ceramic/porcelain as a crown material

Making a crown in-house has become a typical procedure for most dentists over the last 20 years as technology matures and dentist gain a familiarity with it.

Over these two decades, dentists and patients enjoyed the significant reduction of turnover time for a crown from a few days to a couple of hours.

You might also be curious about alternative materials for a crown, which you can get if you opt for a traditional crown.

The old-fashioned but very functional gold-and-silver metal crowns still requires traditional methods for processing which means if you want one, you will have to wait for a few days.

The main advantage of a metal crown is that they are malleable. Some foods, like nuts, require a lot of force to chew, which can cause fractures in less malleable materials. A metal crown will alter its shape to the force rather than fracture which means you’ll have a larger margin for error.

That’s not to say that a ceramic/porcelain crown is fragile. In fact, they are still very strong and can withstand periodic heavy chewing.

The best way to find out whether you can achieve a good outcome with a porcelain/ ceramic same-day crown as compared to a traditional crown is to speak to our dentists.

The tooth you are crowning is suitable for a same-day crown

The initial appointment with our dentists will explore whether you have other options beyond a crown to help you achieve your goals.

At this initial appointment, our dentists will also examine whether the condition of your tooth is better suited for a same-day crown or a traditional crown.

Our expertise with same-day crowns

At Gentle Smile Dental Clinic we have created many new smiles for Singaporeans at our Millennia Walk clinic.

Employing advanced digital dental technology helps us get a detailed evaluation of your teeth in one sitting.

Our dentists are also constantly upgrading their knowledge and techniques, and contributing to the knowledge pool within the global dental community.

Advanced imaging tools that save time

Our clinic uses a fully-digital imaging device called the iTero Element 5D imaging system.

The iTero 5D is both a digital imaging tool capable of creating a 3D image of your teeth, including the spaces between teeth, and it’s able to detect damaged areas all in one scan.

Sophisticated technology helps our patients save time while providing valuable data that informs our approach to your same-day crown.

Advanced dental knowledge

Our dentists are continually upgrading to learn the best techniques that provide patients a longer-lasting and better-fitting same-day crown.

Dr. Kelvin Chua has trained under Professor Pascal Magne to understand the details on the bonding of same-day crown onto the tooth.

Professor Pascal Magne is the Don and Sybil Harrington Foundation Professor of Esthetic Dentistry in the Division of Restorative Sciences at the University of Southern California’s Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry.

Throughout Dr. Chua’s career, he has also shared his knowledge about techniques to create a better same-day crown.

Dr. Chua is a speaker with iTero on the topic of restoration/same day crown and Invisalign. He has most recently spoken at the Asia Pacific Oral Health Congress on digital dentistry.

Ready for a same-day crown?

Now that you have an understanding of the procedure to get a same-day crown, the next step is to get a consultation.

During your consultation, our dentist will discuss your goals and will provide a personal approach to achieving this.

The personal approach could involve alternatives or a combination of procedures to reach your dental goals.

Book an appointment here.

If you’re looking to learn more about dental jargon, check our Dental FAQ article.

Categories
Dental Articles

Gummy smile treatment in Singapore

When you look at yourself in your photos, do you notice that your gums are very prominent?

This is what’s known as gummy smile which is also known as “excessive gingival display”.

Worldwide and in Singapore, what’s considered attractive is a smile that shows minimal gums. Ideally, your lips would cover most of your gums. This allows your teeth to take prominence in your smile.

What is the perfect gum height in a smile?

A 2006 study by Vincent O. Kokich found that “laypeople rated a 3-mm distance from gingiva to lip as unattractive.”

This means that if you smile and you show 3mm or more of your gums, the general public will perceive it as unattractive.

The study showed participants seven images of women’s smiles which were Photoshopped with a variety of permutations and asked them to rate how attractive these looks were.

Why do I have a gummy smile?

Singaporeans can have a gummy smile because of genetic factors as well as habits. Here are the main factors.

Short teeth due to genetic factors or grinding

When your adult teeth emerge from your gums, it will emerge to a certain distance with the rest remaining under the gums.

If your teeth do not go far enough, you will have “under-erupted” teeth which make teeth appear short in comparison to the visible gums.

However, if you find that your smile has become more “gummy” over the years, it might be due to long-term teeth grinding at night.

Singaporeans live in a high-stress society and this can sometimes cause some people to have nocturnal bruxism.

As you grind your teeth at night over a long period of time, your teeth’s height gets shorter. The wear happens over a long period of time and you will find it very hard to perceive unless you do a comparison over many years.

This leads to a worsening of your gummy smile over time, but the good news is that it can be managed by your dentist.

Gummy smiles related to the jaw

The jaw doesn’t like to leave gaps between your top teeth and bottom teeth.

Therefore, every time your teeth gets eroded, your jaw bone and gum will shift downwards in order to fill the gap.

Particular to Singaporeans, our high-acidity diet can further erode our teeth. Drinking or eating foods and drinks with a high sugar content such as bubble tea, ice kacang and pineapple tarts are some examples.

Another factor is also due to teeth grinding. As you grind your teeth, you will create small gaps which will cause your jaw to shift.

Finally, you could very well have excessive upper jaw growth that causes the upper jaw to show more gum.

Hypermobile or short upper lip

The upper lip plays an important role in preventing a gummy-smile look.

In essence, they mask your gums. So if you have thick lips that don’t move much upon smiling , most of your gums will be hidden from view.

On the other hand, having a short upper lip can cause an excessive display of gums when you smile.

Besides the thickness of your upper lip, the other factor is how much they move between your non-smiling face and when you smile.

People who have hypermobile lips will have smiles that reveal too much gums as their lips shift too much when they smile.

I want to fix my gummy smile. How involved is it?

As you have read in the section above, a gummy smile can be the result of various factors.

As a result, the treatment for a gummy smile that comes from excessive upper jaw development would be different from a treatment from nocturnal teeth grinding.

Depending on the reason why you have a gummy smile, our dentists can suggest the most effective way to treat it.

Our dentists will generally use these methods:

  • Laser gum contouring
  • BTX (BTX)
  • Lip repositioning
  • Jaw surgery

Laser gum contouring

Want to talk about laser gum contouring? We love talking about it!

Dr. Kelvin Chua lecturing about combining modern tools to manage gummy smiles at the Medical Alumni Association Dental Conference in 2018.
Dr. Kelvin Chua lecturing about combining modern tools to manage gummy smiles at the Medical Alumni Association Dental Conference in 2018.

Laser gum contouring uses a laser to shape the gums and move your gum line back. It’s minimally invasive and the dentist can reshape the gum line to achieve your desired results.

At Gentle Smile Dental Studio, we have many years of knowledge and practice when using laser gum contouring to build a beautiful smile.

Using a digital tool called the Digital Smile Design, we help our patients have the confidence and an idea of how they will look after the laser gum contouring procedure.

Our dentist, Dr. Kelvin Chua, has given talks about laser gum contouring in various symposiums including the World Clinical Laser Institute Asia Pacific Symposium and the Asia Pacific Dental Congress.

At these conferences, dental professionals listen to Dr. Chua as he talks about how he uses digital tools and multidisciplinary approaches to achieve the results that his patients want and to create a more predictable and quicker treatment outcome.

Lip repositioning and BTX

If the reason why you have a gummy smile involves your upper lip, then our dentists could suggest going through lip repositioning and/or BTX.

BTX is one of the fastest and easiest ways to reduce a hypermobile upper lip.

Injecting BTX will limit the range of movement of your upper lip, thereby ensuring that your smile does not show too much gum.

Usage of BTX in Singapore is regulated. Every clinic that wants to use BTX must have training and be certified by the MOH.

At Gentle Smile Dental Studio, we only use BTX to treat dental-related conditions such as square jaw and gummy smile.

In addition, our dentist, Dr. Kelvin Chua, has lectured on the usage of BTX locally and regionally since 2018.

BTX’s effect on your upper lip can be seen within a few days to two weeks and it will last for 3-6 months.

If you are looking for a more permanent solution, then lip repositioning surgery could be your solution. Lip repositioning surgery moves your upper lip downwards to hide more of your gums.

Lip repositioning surgery is a minor surgical procedure that will provide you with a long term solution to your gummy smile.

Orthognathic (jaw) surgery for gummy smile

Orthognathic surgery is generally not the first line of treatment for gummy smile but it can provide major and long term benefits for people willing to go through with it.

If you have a major case of gummy smile, then our dentists could suggest this as an option.

A few considerations that dentists will have include how many millimeters of gum is exposed, how your lips are positioned at rest and whether alternative treatments are available.

Gummy smile jaw surgery centres around shifting the upper jaw upwards so that it reduce the exposure of your gums.

In addition, this can create a proportional look between the top teeth and bottom teeth.

Furthermore, having a properly positioned jaw will give you a better bite and reduce wear on your teeth over a long period of time.

Get a preview of your smile after our gummy smile treatment

Your gummy smile can be resolved and you can look better in the mirror and in photos at our Millenia Walk (Singapore) dental clinic.

At Gentle Smile Dental Studio, we have many years of experience using various methods to help improve your public image.

One method which our patients love is the ability to preview the final results using a digital tool called Digital Smile Design which allows you to preview your smile after treatment of your gummy smile.

Book a consultation today.

Otherwise, for more dental questions answered, have a look at our Dental Article Glossary.

Categories
Dental Articles

How Singapore dentists remove mercury fillings and is it worth it?

If you have taken a closer look at your teeth, you might find silvery-grey fillings.

Those are commonly known as “mercury fillings” but they’re really a mix of materials and called a “dental amalgam”.

An amalgam is a material made from different elements. In the case of a dental filling called mercury amalgam filling, they are a blend of copper, silver, tin and mercury. For each unit of a dental amalgam, about 50 per cent is mercury.

Mercury is poisonous.

Mercury is indeed poisonous to humans, but only if a person ingests, inhales or comes into contact with a large quantity of mercury.

People who are likely to get mercury poisoning are the ones who eat a lot of fish, live near a mine or work in a setting where mercury could be airborne such as mines, labs and industrial locations. Most Singaporeans do not fall within these risk groups.

However, if mercury is directly in your teeth, does that present an immediate risk?

The biggest risk with dental amalgams that use mercury is the effects of long-term exposure of mercury, supplemented by the fact that the mercury is in a place where you can swallow it.

Therefore, are mercury fillings poisonous?

Prior to the new millennium, dentists in Singapore have used mercury fillings as the main dental filling material.

If you have had dental fillings in the ’80s, ’90s or early millennium, you might have had these mercury fillings. They have proven the most cost-effective, reliable and durable filling for decades.

Mercury fillings can release a small amount of mercury over time and is worsened if a person grinds or clenches their teeth. The quantity released is generally small and does not pose a risk to most people.

In fact, research from around the world shown that there’s no conclusive evidence to prove that mercury fillings pose a danger to a person’s health.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration,

“In general, people with multiple dental amalgam fillings may have slightly higher mercury levels in their blood or urine, however, they usually remain at a level considered safe. Studies on people with dental amalgam do not show conclusive evidence that dental amalgam causes harmful health effects in the general population.”

And the British Dental Association says,

“We have worked alongside the Council of European Dentists (CED) to avoid a full ban of dental amalgam … amalgam remains one of a range of safe and effective filling materials that are available to dentists to provide the most appropriate treatment for the needs of each individual patient.”

Should you remove mercury fillings?

At Gentle Smile Dental Studio, we remove mercury fillings on a case-by-case basis, but generally, mercury fillings are only removed and replaced if there’s a treatment that needs to be done.

For example, if your tooth’s filling is worn and damaged, the dentist could use this opportunity to replace it with a more modern material.

Outside of these circumstances, removing a filling for the sake of removing the filling is generally not recommended for two reasons.

One, every dental intervention might cause the weakening of your tooth structure, and two, removal of mercury fillings will cause a temporary spike in mercury levels due to mercury vapor being released at the point of removal.

That said, there are people who might be at higher risk of mercury poisoning:

  • Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers
  • Very young children
  • People who are allergic to mercury

Some possible effects of mercury poisoning include,

  • Unexplained fatigue, sluggishness, clumsiness
  • Changes in mood
  • Sleep disorders
  • Difficulty remembering
  • Uncontrolled shaking

The best way to know if you should get your dental fillings replaced is by contacting our dentists here.

SMART certification for mercury filling removal

As there is some risk involved with manipulating mercury fillings, the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Technology (IAOMT) have developed a set of techniques to safely remove mercury fillings.

Gentle Smile Dental Studio’s Dr. Kelvin Chua has been a “Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique” (SMART) dentist from IAOMT since 2016.

At our clinic, we take steps laid out by the SMART process including,

  • Air filtration to ensure no inhalation of mercury vapour
  • Dental dams to ensure that mercury fillings do not get swallowed or inhaled
  • Saliva extractor to reduce mercury exposure

There are many more steps to the SMART procedure that you can view here.

What do we replace the mercury amalgam filling with?

bonded composite restoration in singapore

A modern bonded composite restoration

Gentle Smile Dental is a mercury-free dental clinic as we prefer to use modern materials made from composites, glass ionomers and porcelain. Here’s why.

White in colour

Unlike mercury fillings, modern fillings can be white in colour and therefore blend much better into your teeth. They also have a matte look to them, which helps them blend into your teeth much better than the reflective material of mercury fillings.

Advances in technology

Advances in modern materials have allowed them to come close to the reliability and durability of mercury fillings.

This was not the case for many decades, but the dental community now has a material that is reliable, long-lasting and durable.

Environmentally friendly

A global shift to move away from mercury fillings comes from the acknowledgement that we are stewards of our environment.

Mercury fillings have a limited lifespan of 10-25 years, and when they are discarded, they can contaminate our water supply.

For more dental questions answered, have a look at our Dental Article Glossary.

Categories
Dental Articles

Square jaw treatment in Singapore for more confidence & better teeth

Singaporeans can sometimes look in the mirror and wonder why they have square jaws.

At the heart of it, a square jaw is the result of having larger jaw muscles called the masseter muscle.

Masseter muscle, in red. (image from Wikipedia)

The reasons for square jaws are generally as such:

  1. Genetic: Asian men and women tend to have more square-shaped jaws
  2. Diet and habits: if you chew on a lot of hard or chewy foods often, you are “training” your jaw muscles to grow. Some examples are almonds (a hard food) or bubble tea pearls (a chewy treat).
  3. Overnight tendencies: when we sleep, we’re unconscious about what we are doing. Unfortunately, some people grind their teeth or clench hard, which results in the development of your jaw muscles.

Aesthetically pleasing jaws start with square jaw reduction

Looking good plays a big part in your self-confidence.For people with a square jaw, this can harm their self-confidence when they look in the mirror or in photos.

It comes down to how we perceive a square jaw.

Society perceives hard corners and distinctly-angled shapes as a sign of masculinity. For example, think about circles and ovals versus squares and rectangles.

Just think about the headlights on a car. Cars perceived as friendly and feminine will generally have rounded headlights while aggressive and masculine cars will have more rectangular and sharper edges.

And just like headlights, your jaw shape sends a subtle message about yourself.

The goal of square jaw treatments at our clinic is to carve out a V-shaped jaw line.

With a more subtle, curvier and gradual jaw, you can present yourself better in public.

The best part about square jaw treatments in our clinic is that it’s painless, simple and quick BTX/BTX treatment (see below).

Square jaws can also be harmful for your teeth’s durability

We’re generally aware of how we’re using our muscles except when we’re asleep.

This is a period of time where we might be unconsciously causing our masseter muscle to grow.

What happens when you continuously use a muscle?

Simple. It grows larger.

A square jaw is a sign that your masseter muscle, which is the muscle you use to chew, is very large and strong.

When it comes to your teeth, having a strong muscle can cause problems.

It means that you can exert a strong biting force on your teeth. Teeth aren’t indestructible and if you bite too hard, you might cause pain and damage on every bite. In the longer term, this might cause extensive damage that requires crowning, root canals and maybe extraction.

Square jaw treatment in Singapore

Square jaws can be treated in several ways with each having their own benefits and applications.

Our dentists can advise on what’s best in your case, but in general, all Singaporean dentists will look to these four options:

Nightguard

One easy way to reduce your square jaw is by using some specifically designed nightguard to reduce clenching and grinding.

A nightguard is basically something you wear between your top and bottom rows of teeth overnight.

It helps reduce overnight grinding and clenching, which are ways in which your jaw muscles develop over time.

Our dentists can detect whether you are showing signs of overnight grinding and clenching, hence will be able to advise you whether a nightguard is suitable for you.

If our dentists determine that a nightguard is a suitable solution for you, we’d invite you to get a dental imprint of your teeth which gets sent to a lab where your personal nightguard would be created.

Once the nightguard is made, you will wear it every night after brushing your teeth.

Having a nightguard will reduce the chronic overnight “training” of your jaw muscles, which means that over time, you might see a sustained reduction of your square jaw.

Getting a nightguard is a painless process and a dental imprint can be done in one sitting at the dental office. In addition, nightguards require no healing or medical leave from work.

BTX

BTX injections can help you reduce the size of your jaw muscles.

Every injection of BTX will reduce your jaw muscles and help you achieve your goal whether it’s to achieve a V-shaped jaw line or to reduce damage from teeth grinding and clenching.

You will see the effect of BTX quite quickly, by a few days to 2 weeks, and it will last for about six months.

Dentists with relevant training can administer BTX for facial aesthetics treatment, at Gentle Smile Dental Studio only use BTX to treat dental-related conditions such as square jaw and gummy smile.

Injections of BTX are very similar to getting a vaccine as they are quick and generally painless beyond the initial jab.

Every injection will reduce your jaw muscles, which is why dosage varies depending on your goals. If your goal is to reduce teeth damage from grinding and clenching, a dentist will typically give you a lower dosage. If your goal is to carve a V-shaped jaw contour, you will likely get a higher dosage.

The effect of BTX is quick. In one month, you should see some change, with the most visible change peaking around three months.

Shrinking of your muscles can also lead to some changes such as your ability to bite in the way you’re used to.

If you find that you can’t bite properly, it might be because the amount of jaw muscle shrinkage required to achieve a V-shape jaw was significant.

So you might not have the same ease of biting as you had before.

It’s the same as the annual NAPFA 2.4km run you had to do in school.

After the annual test, most people will stop running regularly, and as a result, their muscles shrink and weaken.

So, when the next year comes, starting from zero will cause aches and sores.

Just like overexertion of any muscle, if you overexert your shrunken jaw muscles, you might experience headaches(from overusing of temporalis muscle). This type of headache can be lessened by massaging the sides of your head.

BTX injections for square jaws last for about three to six months. However, if you are prone to grinding and clenching, you might need a supplementary injection.

BTX is quick, effective and causes no disruption in a person’s work and leisure time.

Braces or clear aligners (e.g. Invisalign, Clear Correct)

Sometimes we’re not blessed with having well-aligned teeth. It’s epigenetic and therefore only dental intervention can correct it.

There are many reasons why you should get braces or clear aligners. For example, having a proper bite will help you reduce tooth wear and pains.

Specific to your jaw shape, realigning your teeth with braces or clear aligners will help you achieve a more pleasant facial look.

Braces and clear aligners(e.g Invisalign, Clear Correct) can reduce a “deep bite” which is a misalignment of the teeth where the upper front teeth excessively overlap the bottom front teeth.

Having deep bite can potentially cause the the lower jaw to be trapped behind the upper jaw, which contributes to the square jaw look that you want to avoid.

Braces or clear aligners will gradually reverse this as your teeth become more aligned day by day.

Jaw surgery

Jaw surgery is a major undertaking but can help you improve your bite and jaw shape in a way that no other method can.

For one, you will be able to reshape your jaw and chin in many ways because a surgeon can shave, cut and carve the perfect shape for you.

The effects of jaw surgery are also permanent and require no further intervention for most people.

Typical timelines for jaw surgery is a few weeks. Here’s a breakdown:

  1. A few hours: Consultation with a surgeon
  2. One day: Typically, a surgery is a one-day operation
  3. Within 1 week post-op: Removal of bandages
  4. 2-3 weeks post-op: Return to normal life and work
  5. Follow-up appointments
  6. Beyond 1 month post-op: Swelling subsides fully

When you are recovering from surgery, you will have to adapt to a “recovery lifestyle” that includes:

  1. drinking food for the first week, and avoiding hard foods for a month.
  2. No smoking or alcohol
  3. Wearing a bandages on your face for about a week
  4. No strenuous activities for at least a month
  5. Sleeping face-up, in an elevated position.

Gentle Smile Dental Studio can help your square jaw

How we look can make or break our confidence, and confidence is a very important part of success in business, relationships and family life.

If your square jaw is harming your ability to smile in photos and among people, then you should consider having square jaw treatment at our Millenia Walk clinic.

Likewise, if you are seeing the deterioration of your teeth as a result of grinding and clenching due to overpowering jaw muscles, you will experience longer-lasting teeth with prompt square jaw treatment.

Among the four options – nightguard, BTX, clear aligners and surgery – our dentists will be able to find a suitable one for you that will reduce your square jaw with minimal disruption to your everyday life, and help you achieve your personal goals.

Book an appointment here.

Categories
Dental Articles

Ugly black gums? Gum bleaching & whitening in Singapore

Most Singaporeans will try to achieve a perfectly white set of teeth in order to improve their smile, and if you are blessed with perfectly pink gums, then your smile is complete.

However, for some Singaporeans, they find that their dark gums are a problem.

They see themselves in photos with a great set of teeth but their black gums hamper a complete smile.

Is this an urgent problem?

Black gums is generally not a health risk

Your gum’s colour comes from cells like melanin, carotene and haemoglobin. The first two being pigments and the last being red blood cells.

Almost all of us have pigments on our gums.

In other words, your gum’s colour can be a natural phenomenon in the same way people have different skin tones.

And just in the same way some people tend to have darker skin, some people tend to have darker gums. Specifically, Asian, African and Mediterranean people may have higher pigment activity which also results in darker gums.

In this respect, black gums are not related to any health issue so you won’t need to worry about your gums presenting a physical health concern.

When is black gums a concern?

Having darker gums can be a health concern, both in terms of mental health and physical health.

Darker gums might be a sign that you have an underlying condition or habit that is causing the symptoms.

For most people, the biggest concern with dark gums lies in their concern about how they look and their self-confidence. So let’s examine that first.

When it affects your self-esteem, confidence and happiness

Every time you look at yourself in photos, do you feel a sense of confidence and happiness?

The main reason why Singaporeans get teeth whitening treatment is the same reason why people get their gums whitened.

Feeling good about how you look and feeling confident about your smile helps people feel more confident and happy.

Feeling confident helps people do better in their career, relationships and other interpersonal interactions.

Darker gums can cause people to feel a sense of worry every time they smile and harm their self-esteem. It can hamper their ability to express themselves fully.

This represents a psychological concern and it’s worth considering whether gum bleaching can help you overcome these issues.

When you have poor oral hygiene

If you reviewed your photos and noticed that your gums are getting darker over the years, it might be a sign of poor oral hygiene.

The reason why we need to brush twice daily is because we want to get rid of plaque and tartar.

However, brushing with the right technique is also very important. For one, a lot of the tartar and plaque that collects where the gums and teeth intersect are generally difficult to clean without proper technique.

Furthermore, Singaporeans who enjoy drinking sugary drinks like bubble tea or dessert like ice kacang can see a higher rate of deterioration.

For this reason, your gums may be getting darker because of habits. Our dentists can advise on how you can maintain better habits and how you can reduce or reverse the darkening of your gums.

Smoking

Every time you smoke a cigarette, you trigger the darkening of gums.

This phenomenon is called smoker’s melanosis – a process where the nicotine causes an increase in melanin production.

Not only does this affect your gums, this can also affect your cheeks and lips. It can appear as patches or a general darkening of any pinkish area.

Quitting smoking today might help reverse your gum discolouration. However, just as the darkening of your gums is a slow and pernicious process, the discolouration is not guaranteed and might take a very long time.

Your dentist can advise of a faster way of reversing your gum discolouration.

Diseases

Some diseases can cause your gums to darken. While not an exhaustive list, here are two diseases to look out for:

Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis

Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis is a gum infection which causes pain, bleeding, bad breath and black gums.

The black gums are caused by the infection of the gum which causes a layer of dead tissue to build up over the gums.

Its causes are poor oral hygiene, poor lifestyle habits (stress and lack of rest) or a poor diet.

This is reversible and our dentists can treat it.

Addison’s disease

Addison’s disease is an uncommon disease that causes your body to not produce enough hormones.

As the disease progresses, this can cause people to experience darkened gums and lips.

Your family doctor or our dentists can diagnose this.

You should prefer laser gum whitening. Here’s why.

There are many techniques that dentists use to lighten gums including scalpel, radiosurgery, gum graft, abrasion, chemical and laser.

At Gentle Smiles Dental Studio, we whiten gums with lasers. Here’s why.

Laser gum whitening is a treatment that uses a dental laser that helps achieve a lighter-toned, pinkish appearance on the gums.

Laser is one of the best ways to achieve lighter gums quickly and painlessly.

How long is laser gum whitening? One day.

A typical treatment at our clinic would take 30 to 90 minutes, depending on how many areas need to be treated.

If you just need to treat a few spots, it will be very quick. However, if you want to lighten every area, it will be more involved.

Treatment is generally done one a single day and the results are instantaneous. It’s very rare to need a follow up.

Laser Gum Whitening Gives Instant results

The best part is that the results are instantly perceivable, the process is painless and the treatment can last many years as long as you follow up with good oral hygiene.

How much does Gum Whitening cost?

The costs are $250 to $2100 depending on the severity and extent of the black gum.

Whiten your gums, smile confidently

At Gentle Smiles Dental Studio, we have helped many of our customers achieve greater confidence and happiness when they smile and pose for photos.

Gum whitening is among the many ways that we help our customers achieve this. It all starts with booking an appointment with us.

Otherwise, for more dental questions answered, have a look at our Dental Article Glossary.

Gummy Smile (Laser Gum Contouring / BTX)

The ideal amount of gum that you should show while smiling is about three millimetres.

If you show more than that, your gums can overpower your smile. Scientifically, this is known as “excessive gingival exposure”.

The perfect scenario would be having your lips conceal a large part of your gums, letting your teeth be the focal point of your smile.

Gentle Smile Dental Studio can help you achieve an ideal smile using various methods.

gummy smile 3mm gums infographic

How We Turn Gummy Smiles Into Gentle Smiles

You may have a gummy smile if you have small teeth, overly thick gums, short or hypermobile lips, or a protruding upper jaw bone. There are four main ways that we remedy your gummy smile:

  • Laser gum contouring
  • Lip repositioning
  • BTX
  • Jaw surgery
smiling with teeth and gums for gummy smile

Laser Gum Shaping Or Recontouring

This minimally invasive procedure uses a laser to move back your gum line, and is done under local anesthetic.

The amount of tissue removed varies according to the shape of your gum and mouth.

BTX

At our Gentle Smile Dental Studio, we offer a new treatment that involves injecting BTX into those muscles.

The results are impressive as most patients see a significant reduction in their gummy smile.

When injected into the muscles between your upper lip and nose, prevents your lips from elevating when you smile, thus concealing the gum line.

There is little pain and risk, and minimal downtime.

Lip Repositioning Surgery

This procedure fixes a gummy smile if the cause is a hypermobile upper lip, which is a lip that rises too high when you grin, leading to an excessive exposure of the gum. In lip repositioning surgery, doctors remove tissue from the upper lip so that it can rest lower to cover the gum.

Jaw Surgery

If you exhibit a pronounced gummy smile, dentists might propose this surgical solution. They’ll assess the extent of gum exposure, the resting lip position, and potential alternative treatments. 

The surgery involves repositioning the upper jaw to minimise gum visibility, creating a balanced appearance between the upper and lower teeth.

Additionally, a correctly aligned jaw ensures an optimal bite, reducing tooth wear over time.

Why Do I Have A Gummy Smile?

For Singaporeans, the main reasons why you have a gummy smile include:

Short Teeth

Adult teeth emerge partially from the gums, with a portion remaining hidden. 

If they don’t emerge sufficiently, they appear “under-erupted,” making the smile seem gummy due to the proportion of visible gums. 

Over time, factors like stress may lead to nocturnal bruxism, especially in high-stress societies like Singapore. 

Nightly teeth grinding gradually shortens the teeth, amplifying the gummy appearance. This change is subtle, often noticeable only over several years.

Jaw-related Gummy Smile

The jaw naturally seeks to avoid gaps between the upper and lower teeth. If teeth erode, both the jawbone and gum adjust downwards to compensate. 

In Singapore, diets rich in acidity, with foods and drinks like bubble tea, ice kacang, and pineapple tarts, contribute to tooth erosion. 

Teeth grinding also creates minor gaps, prompting jaw adjustments. 

Additionally, some may experience excessive upper jaw growth, leading to a more pronounced gummy appearance.

Hypermobile Or Short Upper Lip

The upper lip is crucial in determining the appearance of one’s smile as they hide your gums. If you have a thicker upper, then you will be able to hide more of your gums. On the other hand, if your lips are thinner, then you might expose more gums.

Apart from lip thickness, the degree of lip movement between a resting face and a smile also plays a role. Individuals with highly mobile lips might show more gums, as their lips move significantly when they smile.

Get to Know Your Gummy Smile Dentist

dentist kelvin chua talks about gummy smiles and laser dentistry

Hi, I’m Dr. Kelvin Chua

I am the clinical director for Gentle Smile Dental Studio.

My clinic’s goal is to help you craft a smile that you can feel confident about.

To give you a pleasant and gentle experience, I attend conferences to keep up with the latest methods and technology.

Since 2017, I have lectured regionally in Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, and South Korea on aesthetics, laser dentistry and digital dentistry.

Get in touch and we’ll discuss how to craft your perfect smile!

dr kelvin chua dentist gentle smile dental studio singapore
gentle smile dental studio dentist dr kelvin chua

Timelines and Prices

Treating gummy smiles requires a customised treatment plan based on your specific situation.

The most common treatments are BTX and laser gum contouring.

TreatmentTimeCost
BTX5-10 mins$350
Laser Gum Contour (per tooth)1 hour$250+

BTX

BTX only takes 5-10 minutes and can be performed on the same day of the consultation.

Cost is $350 with one complimentary top up within a month.

Laser Gum Contouring

Laser gum contouring takes one hour and is priced at $250 per tooth, while extensive cases requiring bone removal cost $450 per tooth.

With laser gum contouring, we will show you the reduction of your gummy smile with our Digital Smile Design preview.

gentle smile dental studio dentists hygienist

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gummy smiles normal?

Gummy smiles are a normal variation in smile aesthetics and will not cause any physical problems. However, a study has shown that showing too much gums resulted in participants lowering the rating of a person.

Can gummy smile be fixed? How?

Yes, gummy smiles can be corrected through non-surgical means like laser gum contouring and BTX. For other cases, we can also use surgical methods.

Can gummy smile be fixed with Invisalign?

As the jaw plays a part in your smile, Invisalign can help reduce a gummy smile. Our dentists can help you determine the best course of treatment.

What causes gummy smile?

Factors include jaw position, lip length, or gum tissue health.

How much does it cost to fix a gummy smile with BTX?

$350 with one complimentary top up within a month.

How much is laser gum contouring to treat gummy smile?

Laser gum contouring starts at $250.

Book An Appointment

Scan the following QR code to WhatsApp us or email us with the link below.

gentle smile dental studio contact

Teeth Alignment with Invisalign in Singapore

Hi, I’m Dr. Kelvin Chua, and when you visit Gentle Smile Dental Studio, I’ll be helping you with Invisalign.

What does Invisalign do for your teeth?

tooth aesthetics with invisalign

Aesthetics

Straightened teeth will improve your appearance and confidence.

Dental Function

Poor alignment of the teeth and jaw can cause discomfort, chewing issues and grinding/clenching.

Hygiene

Brushing and flossing become much more effective, making it easier to remove plaque, and prevent cavities and gum disease.

Dental Issues That Invisalign Can Fix

crossbite invisalign

Crossbite: A misalignment where upper teeth sit inside lower teeth when biting, causing potential jaw and tooth issues.

crowded teeth invisalign

Crowded Teeth: Insufficient space in the jaw causing teeth to overlap, leading to misalignment and dental hygiene challenges.

gap teeth invisalign

Gap Teeth: Spaces between teeth, resulting from missing teeth or irregular dental arches.

openbite invisalign

Open Bite: Front upper and lower teeth don’t meet when biting, causing speech and chewing difficulties.

underbite invisalign

Underbite: Lower teeth protrude beyond upper teeth, causing an abnormal bite relationship and possible functional issues.

overbite invisalign

Overbite: Upper teeth excessively cover the lower teeth, potentially leading to jaw problems and aesthetic concerns.

Our smile-centred approach to Invisalign

We approach every Invisalign project with the goal of enhancing your smile. To do this, there are seven steps involved:

  1. Listening to your concerns: We will understand what aspects of your smile you wish to improve;
  2. Assess your Smile Aesthetics: Using iTero scans and facial photos, we will evaluate the overall appearance of your smile, considering factors such as tooth alignment, shape, colour, gum health, and facial harmony;
  3. Understand your smile goals: Your ideal smile will be front and centre throughout the treatment planning process;
  4. You will see the predicted outcome: Using Invisalign Simulation Pro, we will create a visualisation that helps you understand what you will look like post-treatment;
  5. We will discuss treatment options: You will understand the various treatments available including a discussion on how each option aligns with your smile goals, lifestyle and oral health;
  6. We will customise your treatment plan: Based on your unique smile goals and dental needs, we will develop a personalised Invisalign treatment plan (ClinCheck) that brings you closer to your goal at every step;
  7. We’ll review your oral health: Before everything begins, we’ll assess and make any necessary recommendations to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy before starting Invisalign treatment.
  8. We’ll build foundational knowledge for success: I and my Treatment Coordinator will explain the Invisalign process and what to expect during treatment. We will address any questions or concerns you may have.
invisalign on screen at consultation in singapore

Our high-tech approach to Invisalign

invisalign predictable results

Predictable Results


Using our Invisalign Simulator Pro, you will know what your smile will look like at the end.

invisalign customised treatment plan

Customised Treatment Plan


Our iTero scanner will get a 3D model of your teeth, allowing me to create a customised Invisalign plan for you.

invisalign virtual care singapore

Save Time With Invisalign Virtual Care


Traditional clinics require physical visits every 6 weeks, but with Invisalign Virtual Care, we will ensure that you are making progress while reducing visits to every 10-20 weeks.

Get to know your Invisalign dentist

gentle smile dental studio invisalign faculty dinner

Hi, I’m Dr. Kelvin Chua

I am the clinical director for Gentle Smile Dental Studio.

I am an Invisalign Platinum Provider, which means we have helped hundreds of Singaporeans through the Invisalign process. In addition, I have also been inducted into the Align Faculty, which gives our team the most up-to-date information about Invisalign.

My clinic’s goal is to help you craft a smile that you can feel confident about.

As such, I have attended courses to help me understand how other treatments and facial characteristics play into building the perfect smile.

I have attended Dr. Derek Mahony’s Full Face Philosophy course, a three-year orthodontic program, and I am trained in BTX and veneers to manage other aspects in order to craft the perfect look for you.

Get in touch and we’ll discuss how to craft your perfect smile with Invisalign and related treatments.

gentle smile dental studio dentist dr kelvin chua cambodia talk
gentle smile dental studio dentist dr kelvin chua
dr kelvin chua dentist invisalign speaker

Timelines for Invisalign

invisalign process singapore

Consultation Process

  • Registration: Simple collection of information such as dental history and contact details
  • Smile Analysis with Treatment Coordinator: Meet with our Treatment Coordinator who will understand your goals, answer questions that you have and create a customised treatment plan for you.
  • Digital Scan with iTero and Photo Taking: By capturing a 3D model of your teeth and facial features, we can craft the perfect smile for you.
  • Consultation with Dr. Kelvin Chua: I’ll review your scans and discuss your treatment plan. You’ll get a chance to raise any questions.
  • Post-Consult and FAQs: At this stage, our Treatment Coordinator will address any frequently asked questions you have so that you can navigate your Invisalign journey. At this stage, you can decide if you would like to put a deposit down to start the process.

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

Most patients in Singapore see results from six to 24 months of daily Invisalign usage.

We’ll see each other for an in-person review every six weeks.

If you have opted for Invisalign Virtual Care, your in-person visits can stretch to 10-20 weeks.

Estimated Price of Invisalign Procedure in Singapore

The cost for a typical Invisalign treatment ranges from $4,500 to $9,000, with the majority of cases falling between $5,000 to $7,500.

The initial consultation is $200. At the end of the consultation, if you decide to go ahead with the recommendations, a deposit of $850 is due.

We’ll then proceed to the ClinCheck simulation about two weeks after the deposit is made. At the ClinCheck consultation, you will see a simulation of how your teeth alignment will progress. If you are satisfied and give your approval, $2,000 is due. We’ll then proceed to create the initial sets of Invisalign clear aligners.

You can then make monthly instalments of $300, or you may choose to use your credit card instead. Ask us about our DBS/POSB financing program.

Beyond your treatment, we offer retainers made by Invisalign, called Vivera. Three sets cost $850.

Estimates accurate as of Dec. 2024. Consult us for a final quote.

ComponentCost
Consultation$200
Deposit$850
ClinCheck Approval$2,000
Instalments$300/month
Total$4,500 – $8,500
Vivera Retainers$850/three

See how you’ll look after Invisalign!

Scan the following QR code with your phone and take a smiling selfie to see how Invisalign can help you.

Ask Dr. Chua FAQ

What does Invisalign help with?

Invisalign corrects misaligned teeth, improving your smile and oral health.

What does Invisalign feel like?

Invisalign trays are generally comfortable, but some users experience mild pressure initially.

What can Invisalign fix (and what can’t it fix)?

Invisalign can fix gaps, overbites, and crowding but may struggle with severe malocclusions.

What does Invisalign look like on teeth

Invisalign is a clear, nearly invisible aligner fitting snugly over your teeth.

Is Invisalign painful?

Some discomfort is possible initially or when changing aligners, but it’s typically minimal.

Can you drink and eat normally with Invisalign?

A main benefit with using Invisalign over braces is that you generally don’t have to change your routines. You can drink and eat normally as long as you maintain dental hygiene.

Will Invisalign cause speech issues?

Not likely, but some users may temporarily have a slight lisp until they adapt to the aligners.

Book An Appointment

Scan the following QR code to WhatsApp us or email us with the link below.

gentle smile dental studio contact