The Cost of Whitening Your Teeth
Having a bright, beautiful smile can help you feel more confident and leave a lasting impression on the people you meet. The growing desire for whiter, more dazzling teeth has resulted in a wide variety of at-home and in-office teeth whitening options ranging in price from $5 to $1,000. The assortment of whitening treatments on the market today makes attaining a glowing smile more convenient and less expensive than ever before. When choosing a bleaching treatment, it is important to take into account the treatment timeline, the level of effectiveness, and the teeth whitening cost.
Average cost ranges for Teeth Whitening
| Method | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Over-the-Counter | $5-50 |
| Professional Whitening at Home | $200-400 |
| In-Office Teeth Whitening | $300-1000 |
Over-the-Counter Whitening
Store-bought whitening products cost less than other bleaching methods, ranging from $5 to $50. This quick and convenient approach to teeth whitening makes a brighter smile accessible to just about anyone. From whitening toothpastes and gels to strips and chewing gum, there are many products on the market claiming to offer a route to a whiter smile. However, these products typically produce much less dramatic changes than professional whitening treatments. In addition, some whitening products contain dangerously high concentrations of peroxide and can cause permanent damage to your smile.
Professional Whitening at Home
Many cosmetic dentists offer at-home teeth whitening kits using custom or premade whitening trays, which can hold the bleaching solution. Prices can range from $200 to $400 and depend on the brand your dentist offers as well as other factors. You can place the tray over your teeth once a day for a predetermined amount of time or overnight. Though these treatments are used at home, they are far more effective and safer than over-the-counter options. Choosing a premade whitening tray rather than a custom tray can make at-home whitening even more affordable.
The form of whitening treatment you choose will play the most significant role in the overall cost.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
Undergoing a teeth bleaching treatment in your dentist’s office is typically the quickest way to achieve your smile goals. Since the procedure takes place in the office, your dentist can use a higher concentration of peroxide for more dramatic results. A professional teeth whitening treatment can cost between $300 and $1,000. The overall price of your treatment will depend on the brand of whitening gel used as well as any advanced tools incorporated into treatment. For example, certain treatments, such as laser whitening, will cost significantly more than traditional methods.
Other Factors to Keep in Mind
The form of whitening treatment you choose will play the most significant role in the overall cost. However, the depth of whitening you require can also affect the price. Certain brands of whitening can address deeper, intrinsic stains, but require a larger investment. Keep in mind that as a cosmetic procedure, teeth whitening is not covered by insurance. If you have any concerns about the cost of treatment, you should talk to your dentist about third party financing options or in-house payment plans.
