Do you have stubborn dental stains that you can’t seem to remove, no matter how long or frequently you brush your teeth? If so, you might be considering different whitening methods to brighten your enamel and boost your confidence.
However, many patients assume that professional cosmetic services, like teeth whitening, are too expensive with their dentist. If you’re feeling tempted to try over-the-counter solutions to avoid overextending your budget, continue reading to learn why it’s worth contacting your provider instead!
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Usually Cost?
There are several popular teeth-whitening methods, and each has its own price range. Although these figures might fluctuate, you can read more about some typical costs below:
- In-office whitening procedures. Many dentists offer chairside procedures for instant results, which often range between $400 to $800+.
- Customized take-home kits. Other providers send you home with professional-strength gels and custom-fitted applicator trays, usually for several hundred dollars.
- Over-the-counter trays. One-size-fits-all applicators can sometimes be purchased for about $100 or less.
- Store-bought strips. Many stores and pharmacies carry strips and gels for about $20 to $40 per box.
What Factors Influence the Cost of Teeth Whitening?
As you can see, the different types of teeth whitening typically have a standard rate. However, there are several factors unique to your circumstances that can potentially impact the out-of-pocket expenses needed to obtain your smile goals, including:
- The type of discoloration present. Extrinsic stains in your enamel tend to respond better to bleach than deeper intrinsic blemishes in the lower layer of dentin, which often require repeated applications to improve.
- The severity of the stains. Those with darker yellow or brown teeth are more likely to require additional product to achieve a brighter smile, increasing costs.
- Your dental condition. If you have pre-existing issues, like cavities or gum disease, these will need to be treated before applying harsh chemicals to your teeth, and you’ll be responsible for paying for any necessary services.
Is It Worth Investing in Professional Teeth Whitening?
You might think that you can save money by avoiding your dentist’s office and using over-the-counter lighteners, but you may come to regret your decision. These products often contain diluted bleaches that are less effective. Not only can they produce inconsistent outcomes, but they can also increase sensitivity. You might require additional dental visits to repair the damage, which incurs additional fees.
Meanwhile, your provider will first examine your mouth to ensure your smile is as healthy as it is beautiful when your elective procedure is complete. Then, they utilize ultra-concentrated solutions and custom-fitted applicator trays for reliable results you can count on.
Although it may cost more initially, whitening your teeth with your dentist can help protect and preserve your smile and potentially save money in the long run!
Meet the Author
Dr. Robert Sanker is a highly accomplished provider with 39+ years of experience helping people enhance their lives by improving their dental health. He earned his dental degree from Georgetown University School of Dentistry and then became a Specialist in Prosthodontics at the Medical College of Virginia (Virginia Commonwealth University). Today, he offers a comprehensive menu of quality services, including cosmetics, to meet all your needs under one roof. You can request an appointment on the website or call (301) 468-5566.