Typical Costs Associated With Teeth Whitening

If you are looking for a brighter smile, you may be considering having your teeth whitened. There are various methods that you may want to consider, which all vary in cost. If you think you may be a candidate for a teeth-whitening treatment, the first thing you should do is consult your dentist. Certain methods may not work for you depending on the condition of your teeth and the stains. If your stains are brown or gray, traditional whitening trays will not work as well for you, which means you may need to see a dentist. Additionally, if you have had dental work done to the teeth you want whitened, such as veneers, crowns, or fillings, certain procedures will not work for you as well. It is important to take all factors and costs into consideration before investing in a whitening method.

Simple Solutions are the Cheapest

Sometimes simple solutions really are the best answer. Your stains may only need a professional cleaning or they may respond to whitening toothpaste or a change in diet. All of these methods are incredibly cost effective and should be tried first, before committing to an expensive whitening procedure. Many times professional cleanings are covered by dental insurance with just a minimal copay. Whitening toothpastes are not any more expensive than regular toothpastes typically. In some cases, special toothpastes may cost more, but the difference is negligible.

Additionally, it costs nothing to change your diet and personal habits. Tobacco, wine, coffee, and tea are major causes of tooth discoloration. Limiting or eliminating these things from your diet can have a significant impact on your teeth. Similarly, brushing and flossing more frequently is free and can also do wonders.

In-Office Treatment

In some cases, it may make sense for you to have a dentist whiten your teeth in office. This appointment is usually one of two or three that will be needed to achieve the desired result. Dentists have access to higher potency whitening agents and can give your teeth a much more thorough cleaning than you can at home. On average, a typical in office whitening nationwide costs between $450 and $650. This of course will depend on the degree of your stains.

Laser Treatment

Recently, laser whitening has become popular among some dental circles. This method of whitening involves highly concentrated peroxide gels and a laser. The dentist applies the gels to the teeth and then heats the bleaching agent with a laser to speed up the process. This method has proven to work faster than traditional whitening trays. The typical cost for the laser treatment is around $1,000.

At-Home Treatment

There are a few different options available to you for at-home treatments. There are over the counter whitening kits that can be bought at most major pharmacies. These kits vary in price but are relatively affordable. The thing with these kits is that you get what you pay for. There is also the option of having your dentist prescribe and dispense an at-home treatment for you. These treatments are typically more trustworthy and effective. They run between $250 and $400.

More About Teeth Whitening : Candidates for Teeth Whitening