How long do the results of teeth whitening last?

Professional teeth whitening results can last up to three years with proper care and maintenance. However, certain factors may play a role in maintaining your bright smile following your treatment. Your genetics, eating and drinking habits, tobacco use, or medications can all affect the timeframe of your professional whitening results. Maintaining excellent oral health with regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist can help keep your teeth brilliant following professional teeth whitening. Touch-ups are also an easy way to ensure your stunning results last.

Will teeth whitening cause sensitivity or pain?

A common side effect of teeth whitening with Opalescence is teeth sensitivity. However, this feeling doesn’t indicate any damage to your teeth or enamel. Talk to your dentist about receiving sensitivity treatment after whitening your teeth.

How many teeth whitening treatments will I need?

The amount of whitening treatments needed will depend on two factors: the shade of your teeth at the beginning of your session and your desired brightness level. You can, thankfully, repeat the whitening process over several sessions to work up to your dream shade of whiteness.

Can everyone get their teeth whitened?

Professional teeth whitening is the ideal method of lifting the shade of your teeth. However, you should note that crowns, bridges, fillings, and veneers will not change color during the whitening process. If you have gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, or exposed roots, you may not be a suitable candidate for teeth whitening. Patients should always consult with a dentist before starting any whitening treatment so they can recommend the best option for their needs.

Professional Teeth Whitening Cost

Understanding The Costs of Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can brighten teeth and improve your appearance. However, it can also come with a hefty price tag. The whitening process typically involves in-office laser whitening, at-home whitening kits, or take-home custom bleaching trays, each using peroxide-based gels and bright lights to expedite and enhance the results. To understand professional teeth whitening and its costs, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Our Waxahachie cosmetic dentists want 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 Waxahachie dental office today at (972) 885-3335.

Types of Professional Teeth Whitening

There are different types of professional teeth whitening procedures available, including in-office treatments, take-home kits, and custom-fitted trays. Your total price will be influenced by which type of treatment you decide on:

In-office treatments are the most expensive but typically offer the quickest and most dramatic results.
Take-home whitening kits are less expensive, but they require more time and consistency to achieve the same level of results.
Custom-fitted whitening 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
Laser teeth whitening, a quick and effective in-office option using a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide bleaching gel activated by a laser, costs between $600 and $1,500 due to its faster speed and greater intensity of whitening
Take-home kits at Waxahachie Family Dentistry are $99, which includes your consultation and free, twice-yearly touch-ups for life!
Custom-fitted trays can cost between $300 and $800

Additionally, some dental practices charge extra for consultations or touch-up treatments.

Factors That Affect Costs

Several factors can impact the cost of professional teeth whitening services. 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 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.
Use a teeth whitening kit prescribed by your dentist as a more affordable option compared to in-office treatments. These kits can be effective, but it’s important to determine the type of tooth staining before using one.

During your initial consultation, your dentist will provide you with a breakdown of the treatment plan and cost.

The Opalescence Process at Waxahachie Family Dentistry

The Opalescence teeth whitening process involves several steps:

Initial Consultation

Dr. Clinton examines your teeth and discusses your whitening goals. He assesses your current tooth color, the cause of any discoloration, and your oral health to determine if you’re a good candidate for whitening.

Treatment Planning

Based on your needs and preferences, Dr. Clinton recommends either take-home or in-office whitening. He explains the pros and cons of each option and helps you make an informed decision.

Custom Tray Fitting

If you choose take-home whitening, Dr. Clinton takes impressions of your teeth to create custom-fitted trays. These trays will be ready for pickup in a few days.

Whitening Treatment

For take-home whitening, Dr. Clinton provides detailed instructions on how to use your kit. For in-office treatments, you relax in the dental chair while the whitening process takes place.

Follow-Up and Maintenance

Dr. Clinton schedules a follow-up appointment to check your results and address any concerns. He also provides advice on maintaining your newly whitened smile and may recommend touch-up treatments as needed.

The actual whitening occurs when the Opalescence gel, containing either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, is applied to the teeth. These active ingredients break down into oxygen molecules, which penetrate the tooth enamel and break up staining compounds, resulting in whiter teeth.

Potential Side Effects and Tooth Sensitivity After The Procedure

Like any dental procedure, teeth whitening can cause some side effects. The most common side effects include increased tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, and mild discomfort. These side effects are usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or desensitizing toothpaste.

In rare cases, teeth whitening can cause more severe side effects such as chemical burns or damage to the tooth enamel. This is why it’s important to have teeth whitening done under the supervision of an experienced dentist.

Caring for Your Teeth After Procedure

After teeth whitening, you’ll want to make sure to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent new stains from forming. Consider the following:

Avoid Dark-Colored Foods and Drinks: For at least 48 hours post-treatment, steer clear of coffee, tea, red wine, cola, berries, and any other foods or drinks that may cause tooth discoloration.
No Tobacco: Smoking or using any tobacco products can stain teeth, decreasing the effectiveness of a teeth whitening treatment.
Use a Sensitivity Toothpaste: Teeth might become sensitive after a whitening session. Using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help alleviate discomfort.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Your teeth may be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures after whitening. Try consuming foods and drinks at a moderate temperature to avoid discomfort.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss daily and use an antiseptic mouthwash to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks: Acidic foods and beverages, like citrus fruits and sodas, can weaken enamel, causing possible tooth staining. Consume them in moderation.

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.

Alternatively, at-home teeth whitening can be a more affordable option that might not require financing.

Alternatives to Professional Teeth Whitening

If professional teeth whitening isn’t within your budget, there are various teeth whitening 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 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 only partially covered. Check with your provider about any reimbursement.

Smart Budgeting for a Bright Smile

Professional teeth whitening can significantly improve your smile’s appearance, but it can also be costly. Fortunately, there are various options to help you pay for teeth whitening services, including in-office professional treatments, take-home kits, and coverage by dental insurance or dental savings plans. Our dentists are here to help you achieve your dream smile!

Contact our Waxahachie dental office today to set up your cosmetic dentistry consultation and see if our teeth whitening options are best for you. Call today at (972) 885-3335.