It was not part of the pageant contract, which provides sponsorship only for facials, gowns and hair, and training in how to do the catwalk and pose. But they decided to do it anyway, to boost Ms Cheong's chances.

She lists her morning coffee, several cups of tea during the day and her favourite teh tarik during supper as the main culprits for her stained teeth.

Dr Wong Keng Mun, clinical director of the T-32 Dental Clinic at Paragon, said Ms Cheong's teeth were in good condition, despite being stained.

As part of her preparations for the international competition, to be held in Los Angeles on 23 Jul, she is lowering her intake of carbohydrates such as rice and she exercises thrice a week.

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