Treatment

What is Teeth Whitening?

In-office whitening uses a high-concentration hydrogen peroxide gel that breaks down stain molecules inside the enamel. The gums are covered with a protective barrier first.

It works on yellow and brown staining from food, coffee and age. It does not change the colour of fillings, crowns or veneers, and grey staining from medication responds slowly.

How it works

After a check and a polish, the dentist isolates the gums and applies gel to the front teeth. A light is often used during several gel cycles, adding up to about 45 to 60 minutes. Some clinics add take-home trays with a lower-strength gel to keep or extend the result.

Who it suits

Yellow or brown staining on natural teeth
People planning veneers who want to set a lighter base shade
Visitors who want a quick change before an event

Who should skip it or wait

Teeth with many visible crowns or fillings on the front
Untreated decay or exposed roots
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
People with severe existing sensitivity

Side effects and risks

Temporary tooth sensitivity
Gum irritation if gel touches soft tissue
Uneven result next to existing fillings or crowns
Patchy white spots that usually fade

Aftercare

Avoid coffee, tea, red wine and curry for 48 hours
Use a sensitivity toothpaste if teeth ache
Do not smoke for at least 48 hours
Use take-home trays only as directed

Planning around your trip

If you want more than one session, book the first early in your trip, since clinics usually space sessions several days to a week apart.

Dental clinics near Apgujeong

Seok Plant Dental Hospital (석플란트치과병원)
Dental, 13 min walk from Hakdong Station
S Plant Dental Hospital (에스플란트치과병원)
Dental, 8 min walk from Apgujeongrodeo Station
Apgujeong Oracle Dental Clinic (압구정오라클치과의원)
Dental, 3 min walk from Apgujeong Station
Eastman Orthodontics Dental Clinic (이스트만치과교정과치과의원)
Dental, 1 min walk from Apgujeong Station
O&O Dental Clinic (오앤오치과의원)
Dental, 1 min walk from Sinsa Station
The Face Dental Clinic (더페이스치과의원)
Dental, 7 min walk from Apgujeong Station
Dream Orthodontics Dental Clinic (드림치과교정과치과의원)
Dental, 6 min walk from Apgujeong Station
Smile D Dental Clinic (스마일디치과의원)
Dental, 2 min walk from Sinsa Station

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

Teeth Whitening price in Apgujeong

₩88,000–₩110,000
per in-office session (single Gangnam clinic listing)

Typical range at clinics around Apgujeong, Sinsa and Cheongdam, checked 2026-10. Source: Modoodoc price listing, Gangnam (Nonhyeon) dental clinic, July 2026. Cosmetic treatments in Korea carry 10% VAT; ask whether a quote includes it.

Full Teeth Whitening price breakdown →

Teeth Whitening questions

How many shades lighter will my teeth get?

It varies with your starting colour and the stain type. Yellow tones respond best; grey tones respond least. Ask for a shade reading before and after.

Why do my teeth hurt after whitening?

The gel temporarily opens tiny channels in the enamel, which can cause short sharp twinges for 1 to 2 days. It usually fades without treatment.

Should I get a cleaning first?

Yes. Removing tartar and surface stain first lets the gel reach the enamel evenly. Many clinics schedule scaling the same day or before.

Will my front crown match after whitening?

No. Ceramic does not bleach, so a crown may look darker afterwards and might need replacing to match.

Is one session enough?

For mild staining, often yes. Darker teeth may need 2 to 3 sessions or a combination with home trays.

Is whitening taxed in Korea?

Dental cosmetic work, including whitening, is subject to 10% VAT, normally included in the price. The tax refund for foreign cosmetic patients lapsed at the end of 2025.

Questions before you visit?

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