How Much Does Professional Teeth Whitening Cost?

The cost of professional teeth whitening can vary depending on the type of treatment, location, and the dentist or practice providing the service.

In-chair whitening

In-chair whitening, also known as power whitening, can cost between $500 to $1,000 or more, depending on the location, the clinic and the type of treatment.

Home whitening

Take-home whitening kits provided by the dentist, can vary from $250 to $600, depending on the same factors as above.

It is important to note that the cost of professional teeth whitening is not typically covered by dental insurance, as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. It’s always best to check with your dentist or insurance provider to get a better idea of the cost and any potential discounts or financing options that may be available.

In-chair teeth whitening typically costs more than at-home whitening kits because it is done by a professional in a dental office. The procedure uses higher concentrations of bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, and specialized equipment to achieve faster and more dramatic results. Additionally, the dentist or dental hygienist performing the treatment can monitor the process and make adjustments as needed to ensure safety and effectiveness. The cost of in-chair whitening can also include the cost of the consultation and any follow-up appointments.

A Few Things To Consider While Tooth Whitening

There are a few things to consider when thinking about tooth whitening:

1. Consultation: It’s important to schedule a consultation with a dentist or dental professional before undergoing any teeth whitening procedure. This will allow them to assess your teeth and gums and determine if whitening is a safe and appropriate option for you.
2. Cause of discoloration: Teeth can become discolored for a variety of reasons, including genetics, certain medications, and lifestyle habits such as smoking or consuming staining foods and drinks. It’s important to understand the cause of your discoloration to determine the best whitening option for you.
3. Method of whitening: There are several options available for whitening teeth, including in-chair whitening, take-home whitening kits, and over-the-counter products. It’s important to understand the pros and cons of each method and to select one that best fits your needs and budget.
4. Maintenance: Teeth whitening is not a permanent solution, and maintenance is typically required to maintain the results. It is important to consult with your dentist on how to maintain the whiteness of your teeth, and also to avoid consuming staining foods and drinks.
5. Cost: As previously mentioned, teeth whitening can be a costly procedure and not typically covered by dental insurance. It’s important to consider the cost and any financing options that may be available before undergoing the procedure.
6. Sensitivity: Some people may experience tooth sensitivity after whitening. It’s important to consult with your dentist on how to avoid this and also what to do if it happens.

Causes of Tooth Discoloration

There are several causes of tooth discoloration, including:

1. Genetics: Some people may be predisposed to tooth discoloration due to their genetic makeup.
2. Trauma: Injury to a tooth can cause discoloration, particularly if the injury affects the pulp (the innermost layer of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels).
3. Age: As we age, the enamel on our teeth can become thinner, revealing the yellow-ish dentin underneath.
4. Lifestyle factors: Consuming staining foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco can cause discoloration over time.
5. Medications: Certain medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics, can cause discoloration if taken during tooth development.
6. Dental procedures: Dental procedures such as fillings or crowns can also cause discoloration if the materials used do not match the color of the surrounding teeth.
7. Poor oral hygiene: Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to plaque and tartar buildup which can discolor teeth over time.

It’s important to identify the cause of tooth discoloration in order to select the most appropriate whitening method and to maintain the results. A consultation with a dentist can help to determine the cause of discoloration and recommend the best course of action.

A teeth whitening dentist is a dental professional who specializes in teeth whitening procedures. They can help to determine the cause of discoloration and recommend the most appropriate whitening method for the patient. They may also provide take-home whitening kits, or perform in-chair whitening procedures.