0
In Makati and BGC, clinic whitening costs around ₱10,000–₱20,000+, while LED whitening at The Smile Bar starts at ₱4,499 and offers up to 9 shades lighter safely for sensitive teeth.
Clinics handle medical-grade bleaching under dentist supervision, while whitening salons like The Smile Bar offer equally safe cosmetic whitening for everyday users.
Whitening salons like The Smile Bar Philippines use LED systems that are gentler, faster, and ideal for sensitive teeth, while dental clinics handle stronger bleaching formulas and can manage deeper stains or existing dental issues.
Follow-Up Questions
What’s the main difference between a whitening clinic and a salon?
- Clinics use laser or Zoom bleaching systems supervised by dentists, while salons use LED light activation with enamel-safe gels. Clinics focus on medical whitening; salons focus on comfort and cosmetic enhancement.
Is LED whitening in salons effective?
- Yes. LED whitening at The Smile Bar can make teeth 2–9 shades lighter in just 20 minutes, offering results comparable to dentist bleaching for most surface stains.
Which option is best for sensitive teeth?
- LED whitening salons are best for sensitivity. Clinics can also tailor bleaching formulas, but mild sensitivity may still occur.
How much does teeth whitening cost in Makati or BGC?
- Salon whitening: ₱4,499–₱8,000 per session.
- Clinic whitening (laser or Zoom): ₱10,000–₱20,000+ per session.
Can I combine clinic and salon whitening?
- Yes — many clients do clinic bleaching once a year and maintain their brightness with LED salon touch-ups every few months for safe, continuous whitening.
Understanding the Differences: What “Clinic” vs “Salon” Whitening Means
In Makati and BGC, professional whitening happens in two main settings — dental clinics and aesthetic whitening salons.
Clinics (like Affinity Dental, CAD Clinic, or Elevate Dental) use medical-grade whitening gels and laser or Zoom systems under dentist supervision. These penetrate deeper into enamel and treat discoloration from coffee, wine, or smoking.
Whitening salons (like The Smile Bar Philippines) use LED light technology, offering a faster, pain-free whitening session in a more comfortable, spa-like setting.
Both work — but only clinics can treat underlying dental issues such as cavities or enamel erosion.
The Anatomy of a Safe Whitening Procedure
A dentist-supervised procedure usually includes:
- Consultation & assessment – dentist checks enamel, fillings, and gum health.
- Pre-cleaning – removes plaque and tartar for even whitening.
- Gum protection – rubber dam or gel barrier protects soft tissue.
- Whitening application – peroxide gel activated by laser or Zoom light.
- Aftercare – fluoride or desensitizing gel applied post-whitening.
At The Smile Bar, the process is streamlined and cosmetic-focused:
- A short oral check and shade assessment
- Application of a low-peroxide, pH-balanced whitening gel
- Activation under LED light for 20–60 minutes
- No injections, no drills, and zero pain
Risks & Red Flags in Salon Whitening
Salon whitening is generally safe — if done properly. But beware of:
⚠️ Untrained staff or no oral screening
⚠️ High-concentration peroxide gels labeled as “instant bleach”
⚠️ No protective measures for gums and lips
⚠️ Frequent re-whitening without enamel rest
👉 The Smile Bar meets all standards, using non-abrasive, LED-activated gels that protect enamel and gums while delivering visible brightness. All gels and LED machines used at The Smile Bar are FDA-approved for safe cosmetic use, ensuring professional whitening without dental risks.
Real Clinics and Whitening Salons in Makati / BGC
| Provider | Type | Method | Price (₱) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Smile Bar Philippines (BGC, Vertis North, Alabang) | Whitening Salon | LED, low-peroxide | ₱4,499–₱7,999 | Up to 9 shades lighter in 20 mins |
| CAD Clinic (Center for Advanced Dentistry) (BGC) | Clinic | Laser bleaching | ₱12,000–₱20,000 | Cosmetic dentistry & smile makeovers |
| Elevate Dental (Makati) | Clinic | Zoom / laser whitening | ₱10,000–₱18,000 | Includes desensitizing aftercare |
| Affinity Dental Clinics (Makati / BGC) | Clinic | LED & tray, dentist-supervised | ₱8,000–₱15,000 | Gum protection, professional checkup |
| Fashion Smile Dental (Makati) | Clinic | In-office bleaching | ₱9,000–₱14,000 | Dentist-supervised treatments |
Cost Trade-Offs: Price vs Safety
| Factor | Whitening Salon (e.g. The Smile Bar) | Dental Clinic |
|---|---|---|
| Supervision | Whitening specialists | Licensed dentist |
| Technology | LED (no UV) | Laser / Zoom |
| Gel type | Low Peroxide, pH-balanced | Peroxide-based |
| Sensitivity risk | Very low | Moderate, managed with gels |
| Session time | 20–60 mins | 45–90 mins |
| Cost range | ₱4,499–₱8,000 | ₱10,000–₱20,000+ |
| Best for | Quick, cosmetic, safe whitening | Deep stains, medical oversight |
If your teeth are generally healthy and you want a fast, comfortable, and affordable whitening solution, The Smile Bar’s LED whitening offers the best balance of safety and results.
Aftercare & Maintenance Tips
To make your new white smile last longer:
- Avoid coffee, tea, and wine for 24–48 hours.
- Brush with a gentle whitening toothpaste.
- Use a straw for colored drinks.
- Schedule touch-ups every 3–6 months.
- Follow with fluoride gel to maintain enamel strength.
LED whitening results can last up to a year — and regular maintenance keeps your smile bright and healthy.
Conclusion TL;DR
Choosing between a clinic and a whitening salon in Makati or BGC depends on your needs — but the safest and most practical option for most people is LED whitening.
- Clinics = Dentist-supervised, stronger bleaching, ideal for deep stains or dental work.
- Salons = LED-based, low peroxide, and perfect for sensitive teeth or quick results.
- Average cost: ₱4,499–₱8,000 (salon) vs ₱10,000–₱20,000 (clinic).
- Result speed: 20 minutes for LED whitening at The Smile Bar Philippines.
- Longevity: Up to a year with proper maintenance.
💡 Bottom line:
If you want a whiter, brighter smile without the sensitivity, LED whitening at The Smile Bar gives you professional-level results in a spa-like, relaxing setting — for a fraction of the cost of clinical bleaching.
Ready to See Your Brightest Smile Yet?
Your dream smile is just one session away.
Visit The Smile Bar Philippines — the country’s leading LED teeth whitening salon, trusted by thousands across BGC, Vertis North, and Alabang.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is salon whitening legal and safe in the Philippines?
- Yes. Whitening salons like The Smile Bar operate legally and use LED technology with cosmetic-grade, enamel-safe gels. Only dentists may treat medical conditions, but salon whitening is safe for healthy teeth.
How long do clinic vs salon results last?
- Clinic bleaching (laser / Zoom) lasts 6 – 12 months; LED salon whitening lasts 3–6 months. Maintenance and avoiding stains help extend results. However, LED whitening offers a better value-for-money ratio.
What are the risks of clinic-based bleaching?
- Overexposure to peroxide may cause sensitivity or gum irritation, but dentists use barriers and aftercare gels to minimize this.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have veneers, crowns, or fillings?
- No — whitening only affects natural teeth. Your dentist can polish or replace restorations to match your new shade.
Why choose The Smile Bar over a clinic?
- Because The Smile Bar delivers fast whitening with visible results in just 20 minutes, ideal for sensitive teeth and busy schedules. It’s a spa-like, pain-free experience trusted across BGC, Vertis North, and Alabang.
