Understanding The Costs of Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can brighten teeth and improve your overall appearance. However, it can also come with a hefty price tag. To understand professional teeth whitening and its costs, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Our Tacoma, WA, cosmetic dentist wants to help you make the most out of your investment in professional teeth whitening. Learn more about the costs of professional teeth whitening by contacting our office today at (253) 761-5422.
Types of Professional Teeth Whitening
There are different types of professional teeth whitening treatments available, including in-office treatments, take-home kits, and custom-fitted trays. Your total price will be influenced by the type of treatment you decide on:
- In-office treatments are the most expensive but typically offer the quickest and most dramatic results.
- Take-home kits are less expensive but require more time and consistency to achieve the same level of results.
- Custom-fitted trays are similar to take-home kits but offer a more tailored approach to whitening.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
The cost of professional teeth whitening varies depending on the type of procedure, the dentist’s experience, and the location.
- In-office treatments cost between $500 and $1,000
- Take-home kits range from $100 to $400
- Custom-fitted trays can cost between $300 and $800
Additionally, some dental practices charge extra for consultations or touch-up treatments. At our Tacoma dental practice, our in-office whitening services cost between $350 to $650.
Factors That Affect Costs
Several factors can impact the overall cost of professional teeth whitening. The location of the dental practice is a significant factor, with practices in larger cities or more affluent areas often charging higher prices. The experience of the dentist can also affect the cost, with more experienced dentists often charging more. Lastly, the type of whitening treatment chosen can significantly impact the overall cost.
Tips for Keeping Costs Low
To maintain professional teeth whitening costs, there are a few practical tips to consider.
- Compare prices between different dental practices to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
- Consider dental insurance coverage, as some plans may cover a portion of the cost of professional teeth whitening.
- Avoid unnecessary add-ons or upgrades that can drive up the cost of treatment.
During your initial consultation, your dentist will provide you with a breakdown of the whitening treatment plan and cost.
Financing Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments
Financing a teeth whitening treatment can be a viable option if you’re looking to professionally whiten teeth but don’t have the immediate funds to cover the cost. There are several ways to go about financing professional teeth whitening:
- Dental Insurance: Some dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of a professional teeth whitening procedure if it’s considered a medically necessary procedure. However, most dental insurance plans don’t cover teeth whitening for purely cosmetic reasons. Be sure to check with your dental insurance provider to understand your coverage.
- Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA): If you have an HSA or FSA, you can use pre-tax dollars to pay for professional teeth whitening. Check with your account provider to ensure teeth whitening is an eligible expense.
- Payment Plans: Many dental offices offer payment plans or financing options to help you spread the cost of teeth whitening over time. These plans may include zero or low-interest options, allowing you to make manageable monthly payments.
- Dental Financing Companies: There are financing companies specifically designed to help individuals cover the cost of dental procedures, including teeth whitening. These companies offer loans with fixed interest rates and flexible repayment terms.
Alternatives to Professional Teeth Whitening
If professional teeth whitening isn’t within your budget, there are alternative methods for achieving a brighter smile. Over-the-counter whitening products, such as whitening toothpaste or whitening strips, can provide some results at a lower cost. Natural remedies such as oil pulling or baking soda can also help remove surface stains from teeth.
However, you must consult your dentist about alternatives to ensure you aren’t harming your teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I negotiate the price or ask for a discount for my professional teeth whitening treatment?
You may be able to negotiate, ask for a package price, or get a discount if you purchase multiple teeth whitening treatment sessions. Discounts may also be offered for referrals or participating in training sessions.
Why is in-office teeth whitening more expensive than take-home kits?
In-office whitening is more expensive because it’s performed under professional supervision using specialized tools and higher-strength whitening gels for faster results.
Does insurance cover any part of professional teeth whitening?
Some dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost, but cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening are usually not fully covered. Check with your provider about any reimbursement.
Smart Budgeting for a Bright Smile
Professional teeth whitening can provide a significant improvement in your smile’s appearance, but it can also be costly. Fortunately, there are various options to help you pay for teeth whitening costs. Our dentists are here to help you achieve your dream smile!
Contact our Tacoma dental office today at (253) 761-5422 to set up your cosmetic dentistry consultation and see if our teeth whitening options are best for you. Petrie Advanced Dental proudly provides cosmetic dental treatments to patients in Lakewood, Federal Way, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and University Place.
