Having your teeth whitened can boost your confidence, so some people choose to have it done professionally. But one of the questions asked is: How much will it cost, and is it covered by insurance? Understanding the cost of professional teeth whitening and how insurance works can help you choose what’s best for you and your budget.
Teeth whitening is considered cosmetic dentistry. So, it can vary depending on the type of whitening you want, where you live, and which dentist you see. And it will depend on whether you will be covered by your insurance. Let’s have a look at the points to help you get an idea of the costs up front, before booking in.
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a procedure to eliminate tooth discoloration. It’s different from products you can buy at the shops because it’s done by a dentist and is safer and more effective than over-the-counter products.
There are two types:
- Whitening at the dentist’s clinic: Whitening using stronger bleaching agents, light, or lasers when performed at the dentist’s surgery
- Dentist-provided whitening kits: Custom whitening trays with high-concentration whitening gel to be used at home
Both types of whitening treatments are effective, but differ in cost, time, and practicality.
Cost of Professional Teeth Whitening Without Insurance
If you don’t have dental insurance, the cost of teeth whitening depends on the type of treatment you choose.
Teeth Whitening in the Dentist’s Office
This is the quickest and most effective teeth whitening treatment. Your treatment will take between 60 and 90 minutes.
- Average cost: $300 to $1,000 per session
- Outcomes: Quicker and stronger
Price will vary according to the dental practice, whitening system, and location.
In-Home Teeth Whitening
You can have trays made and take home an agent.
- Average cost: $150 to $400
- Results: Average, 1-2 weeks
This is less costly, but more time-consuming.
What Affects the Cost?
Professional teeth whitening prices vary as they are influenced by many factors, including:
- Level of the discoloration
- Number of sessions needed
- Dentist’s experience
- Location
If you’re very discolored from smoking and coffee drinking, you need longer to get the effect you want, and it will be more expensive.
Professional Teeth Whitening Cost With Insurance
Now, let’s look at the cost of teeth whitening with insurance. This can be a bit confusing for many people.
Whitening teeth is often considered a cosmetic treatment, so most insurance companies don’t cover it. Most insurance companies will cover fillings, cleaning, or extractions.
But are there any exceptions?
There are a few exceptions where you may get a lower rate of coverage if:
- Tooth discoloration is due to a medical condition
- Teeth whitening is carried out as part of a restorative treatment
However, these cases aren’t common. It’s best to contact your insurance company to check.
What Can You Do to Save Money?
Although insurance may not cover this, there are other ways to reduce costs.
- Many clinics offer payment plans, so you can pay over several months rather than all at once.
- Some clinics will have discounts and promotions, especially for first-time patients.
- Non-profit or community health centers often provide lower-cost services.
- Some clinics offer memberships that reduce costs on regular visits or treatments.
Is it Worth it to go with Professional Teeth Whitening?
Let’s assume someone asked: “Do you think professional teeth whitening is worth it?” Should you pay for professional teeth whitening, or spend the money and do it at home? The answer is simple. It is based on the benefits and the specifications that you are looking for.
The benefits of in-office treatment:
- Achieves quicker and more satisfactory results
- Will be less irritating to your gums
- Customized to your teeth’s needs
Over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments are cheaper, but have longer treatment times and may be less effective.
How Long Does It Last?
A common question people often ask is how long teeth whitening results last.
On average:
- The results last from 6 months to 2 years
- This is dependent upon lifestyle. For example, drinking coffee, tea, or red wine will stain your teeth
- Smoking will have an impact on how long the results will last
- Any regular maintenance and touch-ups will help to maintain the results.
Tips on Teeth Whitening
Here are some things to keep in mind when whitening:
- Whitening doesn’t work on crowns, veneers, and fillings
- Your teeth can be sensitive (for a short time)
- You should have an examination prior to starting
It’s recommended to consult a dentist in Livingston. They will be able to tell you whether you are a good candidate, which will be helpful to you.
Comparing Costs: Quick Overview
- In-office whitening: $300-$1,000 (quick and long-lasting)
- Take-home kits (dentist): $150-$400 (long to work and not long-lasting)
- Insurance: Not covered
This will help you decide what’s best for you.
Final Thoughts
Being aware of the costs of whitening teeth with and without insurance will help you choose what’s right for you. Teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry procedures are not covered by insurance, but you can find a payment plan.
If you need your teeth whitened immediately, consider having them whitened in your dentist’s office. A cheaper alternative is to have a dentist provide you with a kit to take home. So, it comes down to your budget, cosmetic goals, and expectations. Get a dental examination from your dentist to see how to achieve a whiter smile.