How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
Dental stains and discoloration are two of the most common complaints that people have regarding the appearance of their smile. Fortunately, teeth whitening has the potential to erase dental stains and enhance the color of the teeth to give individuals the brighter, whiter smile they desire.
When patients come to The Smile Center in Virginia Beach, VA, to learn more about teeth whitening treatment, one of their most common concerns is how much teeth whitening will cost. Teeth whitening costs vary based on several different factors, including the treatment technique. Here, our dentists discuss average teeth whitening expenses for various teeth whitening procedures.
Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Costs
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products are the most affordable way to brighten the smile. There are a wide range of over-the-counter whitening products, including toothpastes, mouthwashes, strips, and gels. These products range in price from around $5 for a mouthwash or toothpaste to around $50 for strips or whitening gels. Although these products are affordable, it is important to understand that their effects are limited. Over-the-counter products generally improve tooth color by only one or two shades and require routine use.
At-Home Teeth Whitening Costs
At-home teeth whitening is popular among our Virginia Beach patients because it combines the convenience and affordability of over-the-counter whitening with the effectiveness of professional-strength whitening products. These kits include custom whitening trays and whitening gel. Depending on the type of at-home kit that is preferred, teeth whitening trays can be used for a specific amount of time each day, or at night while a person sleeps. At-home teeth whitening is generally used for a few weeks at a time, and is able to lift away dental stains and improve the color of the teeth by several shades. The cost of at-home teeth whitening varies based on the product used and the length of treatment, but average costs are between $200 and $400.
In-Office Teeth Whitening Costs
In-office teeth whitening costs more than other teeth whitening methods, but it is still one of the most affordable cosmetic dentistry treatments. During in-office teeth whitening, a professional-strength hydrogen peroxide-based gel is applied to the teeth. The teeth are then exposed to an LED light that activates the whitening product. In-office treatment usually includes three, back-to-back, 15-minute whitening sessions. In just about an hour, dental stains are minimized and tooth color is enhanced by up to eight shades. As with at-home teeth whitening, the cost of in-office whitening treatment varies, and is largely based on the product that is used. The average cost of in-office teeth whitening is around $500.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
Although over-the-counter teeth whitening products are cheaper than at-home or in-office teeth whitening, professional treatment offers our Virginia Beach patients advantages that over-the-counter whitening products do not. Some of the most notable benefits of professional teeth whitening include:
- Fast and effective whitening results
- Minimal risk of soft tissue damage
- Virtually no treatment side effects
- Personalized care
Get In Touch
If you are considering professional teeth whitening treatment, the best way to get an accurate cost estimate is to schedule a personal consultation with a cosmetic dentist. To get started with the dental team at The Smile Center, send us a message online or call (757) 473-8482 at your earliest convenience.
