If you’re unhappy with stained or discolored teeth, professional teeth whitening can provide a noticeable boost to your smile. But before scheduling treatment, you may wonder how much professional whitening costs. The answer depends on several factors, including the type of treatment you receive, your dentist’s fees and the severity of your tooth discoloration.
What Does Professional Teeth Whitening Cost?
Professional teeth whitening commonly costs a few hundred dollars, although prices can vary significantly from one dental office to another. In-office whitening treatments generally cost more than take-home professional whitening kits because they involve treatment and supervision at the dental office.
Take-home whitening systems provided by a dentist may use custom-made trays and professional-strength whitening gel. They can be a more affordable option while still providing noticeable results over time.
The best way to determine your exact cost is to schedule a consultation with your dentist and request a detailed estimate.
What Factors Affect the Price?
Several factors can influence the cost of professional teeth whitening. The type of whitening system is one of the biggest considerations. In-office treatments, custom take-home trays and other professional systems may have different price points.
Your dentist may also need to evaluate the condition of your teeth before whitening. Cavities, cracked teeth or gum problems should generally be addressed before cosmetic treatment. Additionally, professional whitening may not correct every type of discoloration.
For example, stains located inside a tooth may respond poorly to traditional whitening. Your dentist may recommend alternatives such as veneers or another cosmetic treatment depending on the cause.
Is Professional Whitening Worth the Cost?
Professional whitening can offer advantages over many over-the-counter products. Your dentist can evaluate your oral health, recommend an appropriate treatment, and either whiten your teeth themselves or provide instructions for using professional whitening products safely at home. If you want quick, dramatic results for, say, an upcoming special occasion, in-office whitening can brighten your smile by up to 8 shades in a single appointment.
Professional treatment can also help you avoid wasting money on products that aren’t appropriate for your particular type of discoloration. Many patients who turn to a dentist for whitening do so because they’ve tried over-the-counter products and found them lacking in effectiveness.
Keep in mind that whitening isn’t permanent. Your teeth can gradually become stained again through exposure to foods, beverages and other factors. Good oral hygiene and periodic touch-up treatments may help maintain your results.
If you’re considering professional teeth whitening, don’t choose a treatment based solely on price. Ask what the treatment includes, how many appointments you’ll need and whether follow-up or touch-up treatments are included. Your dentist can help you compare professional whitening options and determine which approach best fits your smile, expectations and budget.
About the Practice
Whether you prefer fast, powerful results through in-office teeth whitening, or you’d rather go at your own pace from the comfort of your sofa with a take-home kit, Richland Dental can accommodate you! Our caring, knowledgeable dentists are ready to meet with you for a consultation if you’re prepared to take the first step towards a whiter smile. Book online or call our Richardson office at (972) 231-0799.