Average Cost Of Teeth Whitening At A Dentist
Introduction
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that removes stains and discoloration from teeth. It is a popular procedure that can give you a brighter and more confident smile. However, many people are hesitant to get their teeth whitened because they are unsure about the cost of the procedure. In this article, we will discuss the average cost of teeth whitening at a dentist.
Types of Teeth Whitening
Before discussing the cost of teeth whitening, it is important to understand the different types of teeth whitening procedures. There are two main types of teeth whitening: in-office and at-home.
In-office teeth whitening is a procedure that is done by a dentist in their office. It typically involves the use of a strong bleaching agent that is applied to the teeth. The procedure usually takes about an hour and can result in significant whitening.
At-home teeth whitening involves the use of a whitening gel that is applied to the teeth using a tray or strip. The gel contains a lower concentration of bleaching agent than in-office whitening, so it may take longer to see results.
Average Cost of In-Office Teeth Whitening
The cost of in-office teeth whitening varies depending on a number of factors, including the location of the dental office, the experience of the dentist, and the type of whitening procedure used. On average, in-office teeth whitening costs between $500 and $1,000.
However, it is important to note that not all dental insurance plans cover the cost of cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening. If your insurance does not cover the cost of teeth whitening, you will be responsible for paying for the procedure out of pocket.
Average Cost of At-Home Teeth Whitening
The cost of at-home teeth whitening also varies depending on the type of whitening kit used. Over-the-counter whitening kits can cost anywhere from $20 to $100, while professional-grade kits that are prescribed by a dentist can cost between $300 and $500.
While at-home teeth whitening kits may seem like a more affordable option, it is important to note that they may not be as effective as in-office whitening. Additionally, if the kit is not used correctly, it can cause damage to the teeth or gums.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Teeth Whitening
As mentioned earlier, there are several factors that can affect the cost of teeth whitening. These include:
- The location of the dental office – dental offices in urban areas may charge more than those in rural areas
- The experience of the dentist – more experienced dentists may charge more for their services
- The type of whitening procedure used – in-office whitening is typically more expensive than at-home whitening
- The length of the whitening treatment – longer treatments may cost more
- The type of dental insurance you have – not all insurance plans cover the cost of cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening
Conclusion
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can give you a brighter and more confident smile. The cost of teeth whitening varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of procedure used and the location of the dental office. If you are interested in getting your teeth whitened, it is important to talk to your dentist about the options that are available to you and the associated costs.