Teeth whitening is a dental procedure known to help you achieve a brighter smile. If you are considering getting this treatment, it’s important to be aware of how much it costs to prepare financially or make your final decision based on your budget.
This blog post will briefly discuss how much you should expect to pay, plus the factors affecting its cost.
What is Teeth Whitening?
Tooth whitening is a dental cosmetic procedure that uses bleaching agents, called hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to remove or reduce deep and surface stains on your teeth, making them appear brighter. While this is a common treatment, it is not for everybody. You may not be a good candidate if you have sensitive teeth, gum disease and tooth decay.
You should note that there are two types of teeth stains, which can help determine the best whitening treatment method to use. These include:
- Extrinsic stains: These kinds of stains appear on the surface of your teeth and are usually caused by food, drinks and smoking. They can be removed or reduced with teeth whitening products, such as gels, toothpaste, strips and mouthwashes.
- Intrinsic stains: These develop inside your tooth and are often the result of certain medications, such as tetracycline, trauma or aging. These are more difficult to remove and may require professional whitening treatment by a dentist in a dental clinic.
Teeth Whitening Methods
There are two major teeth whitening methods: in-office or in-chair teeth whitening and at-home teeth whitening.
In-office or in-chair is a professional whitening treatment done by a qualified dentist or another dental professional in a dental clinic. It usually lasts 40 minutes to an hour, depending on the severity of your teeth stains and discolourations. It is the most effective method because dentists use higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. After your first session, you may see that your natural teeth have become 2 to 8 shades lighter. It is also the safest because dentists take precautions before and during the procedure by protecting your gums and other oral tissues from the bleaching agents.
On the other hand, at-home teeth whitening is a do-it-yourself method using lower concentrations of bleaching agents. It is less effective than in-office teeth whitening, but it is more convenient because you can do it at home and at your own pace. Many over-the-counter products, such as gels, strips, toothpaste, and rinses, are available.
Custom-fitted take-home whitening trays are also a DIY type of teeth whitening available from dental clinics. They are similar to mouthguards made from impressions of your teeth, so they fit snugly and comfortably over them. These trays are then filled with a small amount of bleaching gel and worn for a certain period of time, usually 30 minutes to 1 hour per day, depending on the manufacturer’s and your dentist’s instructions.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
The teeth whitening price will depend on many factors, so it’s always best to contact your dentist for an accurate estimate. But the average cost of in-office teeth whitening is $260 per tooth, plus complimentary consultation and plaque removal that can cost up to $280. On the other hand, you can expect to pay up to $610 for a take-home teeth whitening kit. Other over-the-counter tooth whiteners, such as toothpaste, strips and gels, can be bought for as low as $5, depending on the product.
What Factors Influence the Cost of Teeth Whitening?
Many factors can influence the cost of teeth whitening, such as:
- The type of procedure: In-office teeth whitening treatment is more expensive than other methods because it uses higher concentrations of bleaching agents and is done by a dentist or certified dental professional.
- The severity of your teeth stains: If you have deep set stains, you may need more than one session of in-office teeth whitening treatment to achieve the desired results. This means that you have to pay more. Similarly, you need to use more at-home whitening products if your teeth stain is severe, adding to the cost.
- The location of the clinic: The price of teeth whitening can also vary depending on where the dental clinic is located. Due to higher overhead costs, dental clinics in major cities tend to charge more than those in smaller towns.
- The number of teeth being treated: The price will increase if you whiten more than one tooth.
How Long Do Teeth Whitening Results Last?
This depends from person to person, but on average, the results of in-office teeth whitening can last for three years. However, you should note that your teeth will eventually revert to their original colour over time as they are constantly exposed to staining agents such as coffee, tea, red wine and smoking. Avoid consuming these products and other teeth-staining food and beverages to maintain the result of your teeth being white to their maximum lifespan. Also, you have to ensure good oral hygiene, like brushing and flossing your teeth regularly.
The results of take-home custom tray whitening kits are not as long-lasting as in-office treatments, but they can last for several months to 1 year if you take care of your teeth. On the other hand, over-the-counter tooth whiteners, such as strips and gels, will only give you short-term results that can last up to 4 months.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
When the active ingredients used in the whitening process come into contact with your teeth, they open up your tooth enamel’s pores. This allows oxygen to enter the tooth and breaks down the molecules that cause stains, thus making your teeth appear whiter.
In the case of in-office whitening treatments, your dentist will use a special LED light to accelerate the bleaching process, resulting in faster and more dramatic results.
Does Private Health Insurance Cover Teeth Whitening?
Private health fund providers usually do not cover the cost of in-chair teeth whitening, but some cover a portion, and this depends on your level of coverage. However, take-home kits are not usually covered by most health funds. It’s best to ask your private health insurer beforehand to see if they cover any part of the cost for in-office or at-home teeth whitening.
Are There Alternatives To Teeth Whitening?
Other dental procedures are available if you are not a good candidate for an in-chair teeth whitening procedure or if you are looking for a more long-lasting alternative. These include:
Bonding
This is a procedure wherein your dentist will apply a tooth-coloured resin to your teeth and then harden it using a UV light. The resin will help to cover up any stains or discolouration on your teeth.
Dental Veneers
These are thin porcelain shells placed over your teeth’s front surface. Their main purpose is to improve the appearance of your teeth, and they can also help to cover up any stains or discolouration.
Crowns
A dental crown is a dental restoration type that covers the entire tooth. It is usually made from porcelain or ceramic material, and it can help improve the appearance of your teeth while also increasing stability and strength.
Is Teeth Whitening Worth the Cost?
In-chair teeth whitening procedure may be worth the cost, considering its benefits. Aside from making your teeth appear whiter and brighter, it can also help boost your confidence. The results last longer compared to at-home teeth whitening kits, plus it’s safer because your dentist can monitor the procedure and make sure that your teeth and gums are not being injured. A significant advantage of this method is that it removes or reduces deeper stains that at-home teeth whitening products can’t.
On the other hand, at-home teeth whitening kits may be a more affordable option, but they will require patience and discipline to see results. In addition, it’s less effective, and the results are not as long-lasting.
In the end, your final decision depends on your personal preference and what you are willing to spend on teeth whitening.
The Bottom Line
It’s not surprising that teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment because it can help you achieve a brighter smile, boosting your confidence. While the in-office method is the most expensive, it is also the most effective and safest option. In other words, the benefits you get may be worth the cost. You can always try at-home teeth whitening kits if you’re looking for a more affordable option, but ensure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid risks and get optimum results.
If you are planning to get your teeth whitened, but want an accurate estimate first, call Prospect Road Dental now at 08 9020 7002 to book an appointment with one of our dentists. We will be more than happy to provide you with a quote. We will also let you know if you are a good candidate for the treatment or if another procedure is better for your circumstance. Our state-of-the-art dental clinic has been providing professional teeth whitening services (in-office and at-home teeth) to the community for many years, making us one of the most trusted names in the industry.