In recent months there has been some controversy in the dental profession regarding tooth whitening services provided by non-dentists.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Singapore Dental Council (SDC) takes a serious view of the practice of dentistry being performed by non-dentists or in unlicensed premises and will take legal action against any individual contravening the law.

The SDC's jurisdiction however is restricted to matters relating to the practice of dentistry in Singapore as defined in the Dental Registration Act. The Act however does not categorically state that 'teeth whitening" is a practice of dentistry.

Teeth whitening products are available over the counter. Under the Health Products (Cosmetic Products-ASEAN Cosmetic Directive) Regulations 2007, as long as the concentration of hydrogen peroxide or other similar chemicals present in a finished oral hygiene product is less than or equal to 0.1%, it will be allowed for sale to the public. Thus if the products used by these non-dentists contain less than or equal to 0.1% hydrogen peroxide, no violation has been made, regardless of the efficacy of the treatment.

As MOH continues to monitor and look into this matter, the dental fraternity should continue to initiate public education and awareness through the mainstream media or through forums.

Related links:

Dental Registration Act 
HSA Cosmetic Products Regulation