Cost of Teeth Whitening: Types, Cost & Insurance Coverage

A picture-perfect smile not only boosts confidence but also leaves a lasting impact on others. A perfect smile is a combination of straight and white teeth, and you can opt to use an effective alignment treatment along with teeth whitening treatment or procedure to get your dream smile. Besides looking good, a bright shiny smile also shows that you care about your teeth.

You may have a perfect bright smile but as time goes by, foods like coffee, red wine, aging, and even genetics can dull that shine. This is where whitening your teeth comes in. It helps to make your teeth look fresh and bright. In this blog, we’ll explore the different teeth whitening options out there, What are the costs of teeth whitening procedures & are they worth it? is teeth whitening covered by insurance, and weigh the pros and cons of each choice.

What is Teeth Whitening and How Does it Work?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic process that involves whitening and brightening teeth to make them look attractive. Although the first step towards your dream smile is your perfectly aligned teeth, teeth whitening also plays a major role. This procedure uses teeth bleaching techniques with other whitening agents to help make the teeth appear whiter and brighter. Sometimes, it involves using products with hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, or other bleaching agents. These products break down stains into smaller pieces, lessening their strength and making teeth whiter.

Difference Between Teeth Whitening and Teeth Bleaching

A lot of people often mix up the words "whitening" and "bleaching," but they mean different things when it comes to teeth. So, let’s break it down:

• Teeth Whitening: It is like refreshing your teeth. It’s all about getting rid of harsh stains and restoring your teeth's original color. You know those whitening toothpastes you see in stores? They are usually just whitening products because they help clean up your teeth without changing their natural color.

• Teeth Bleaching: This is a slightly stronger and more intense way of whitening teeth. It uses powerful chemicals, like hydrogen peroxide, to make teeth lighter than they originally were. This process usually happens in a dentist's office, where they can better control things and ensure it’s done safely.

In short, unless you want to change your teeth' original color, you are talking about whitening. But bleaching is the way to go if you want to go beyond and lighten up your teeth even more! Many people use the terms interchangeably but they aren’t quite the same.

How Teeth Whitening Works?

• Bleaching Agents: Professional and at-home whitening treatments use bleaching agents that are peroxide-based and sink through enamel to break down stains.
• Light Therapy: Some professions use LED, UV, or laser light to speed up the whitening through the bleaching agents.
• Whitening Strips and Gels: They contain bleaching agents that provide gradual whitening as they contain lower concentrations of the chemical

In-office Teeth Whitening

Although there are many ways to whiten your teeth, ranging from professional teeth whitening to at-home teeth whitening. In-office teeth whitening is the quickest and best method performed by a dentist. In an in-office treatment, a bleaching gel is applied to the teeth and activated with a light or laser. A protective barrier is applied to the gums before bleaching gel with hydrogen peroxide is applied to the teeth. The gel is rinsed off, revealing whiter teeth.

Benefits

• Teeth can lighten by several shades from just one session.
• The step is carried out by a professional and, therefore is safe.
• The effect of whitening lasts long.

Disadvantages

• More costly than at-home techniques.
• Can lead to temporary sensitivity and irritation.

At-Home Teeth Whitening with ALIGNERCO

If you're looking for an at-home teeth whitening product that gives you faster and more professional results at an affordable price, the ALIGNERCO Teeth Whitening Kit is a great choice.

What’s Included in the ALIGNERCO Whitening Kit?

• 6 Bulbs LED Light: It helps speed up the lightening process to see noticeable results in 5 days or less.
• 3x Whitening Gel Pens: Convenient pens allow targeted stain removal.
• Custom-Fit Mouth Tray: It ensures that the whitening process is even.
• Shade Guide: This helps track your whitening progress.

Why Choose ALIGNERCO?

• See visible results in 5 days by applying it for 30 minutes daily.
• The wireless LED lights and small gel pens make it a compact and portable option that is easy to use at home or on the go.
• It is an affordable alternative for on-office whitening treatment, get similar results from the comfort of your home.
• ALIGNERCO offers flexible payment plans and free shipping across Canada.

How to Use the Kit

1. Brush and dry your teeth.
2. Apply a thin layer of whitening gel to the custom-fit mouth tray.
3. Attach the tray to the LED device and place it in your mouth.
4. Turn on the LED light and wait 30 minutes.
5. Rinse your mouth and enjoy your brighter smile!

Benefits

• This kit saves you money.
• Because of the custom trays, the whitening is even.
• Less sensitivity due to gradual results.

Disadvantages

• You are waiting longer for results.
• You need to follow the routine properly.

Other Whitening Products

These items include whitening toothpaste, strips, gels, and mouthwashes.

How it works

The whitening strips or gels are directly applied to the teeth. A whitening toothpaste has abrasives as well as bleach that remove stains gradually.

Benefits

• It is the cheapest option.
• They are easy to use and easily available.

Disadvantages

• Takes weeks or months to see the results in good whitening.
• This is less effective than a professional treatment.
• They have the potential for uneven whitening.

Cost Breakdown of Whitening Treatments

Factors Influencing Costs

Several factors can impact the treatment process and cost of tooth discoloration. When it comes to discolored teeth, one of the foremost criteria affecting the treatment is the severity of the discoloration.

• If the discoloration is stubborn or deep-seated, you may have to undergo the treatment for multiple sessions. In more severe cases, people may require more intensive treatments over a longer period to achieve better results. They’ll likely get the brighter smile they want.
• When it comes to teeth whitening, the type of treatment you choose can make a difference in the overall cost. Whitening treatments that take place in a dentist’s office typically cost more than at-home kits. At the same time, you might get better results quicker with the professional whitening treatment. Dentists can use more powerful whitening agents and sophisticated techniques to deliver great results.
• Your area’s treatment cost will also matter. The city is most likely more expensive due to the cost of living as well as demand. But, smaller towns might be more affordable. The charges can vary depending on the treatment location.
• The cost of dental whitening can vary depending on how experienced your dentist is. More proficient and experienced dentists charge more compared to the rest. The selection of a dentist can be very vital in your whitening journey. This is judged by their requirement and cost. It can be an informed decision if you consider the above factors while looking to brighten your smile.

Is Teeth Whitening Covered by Insurance

Teeth or tooth whitening is considered a cosmetic procedure and most dental insurance plans will not cover it. However, in some instances, whitening may be covered if it is deemed necessary for reconstructive reasons such as:

• Discoloration due to trauma.
• Post-op whitening after surgery.
• Whitening before significant dental work.

To find out whether it’s covered, ask your insurance company before the treatment.

Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening

Everything comes with its pros and cons and so do teeth whitening.

Pros

• Boosts Self-esteem: Getting a whiter smile is just what you need to boost your self-esteem. When you see bright teeth in the mirror, it’s difficult not to feel good about your smile. As a result, you may participate in more social gatherings and meet new people or groups. You may notice yourself smiling a lot which can alter your response to others and the world.
• Enhance Aesthetics: Whitening your teeth can do wonders for your look! Having a white smile can turn back the clock on your appearance and make you look way more attractive. When you’re self-assured about your smile and appearance, it reflects through your actions. It is true that a nice smile is one of the best features to have!
• Professional whitening: Going to a professional to get your teeth whitened is the best option if you want to get your teeth whitened. People see outstanding outcomes after only one visit.It is a simple and safe process, unlike the more evasive procedures like crowns or veneers. It means you can get a gorgeous smile without the pain or long recovery that comes with other dental procedures. It’s a simple way to look good and feel good!

Cons

There are many important things to consider before trying to whiten your teeth.

• Temporary sensitivity: It can be a common side effect. Sometimes, you might experience sensitivity after using whitening treatments that have a high concentration of active ingredients. This means that hot or cold foods and beverages may cause discomfort until the sensitivity disappears.
• Irritation of the gums: Some people’s gums can get irritated/gum irritation. If using whitening products with bleaching agents people may find that their gums get irritated. You may feel discomfort in the gums in the beginning phase of using the whitening products.
• The effects will not last forever: Whitening treatments used to brighten teeth are affected over time by certain foods, drinks, smoking, etc. Overall, the effects of these factors can lead to your stains returning. So, you might have to get whitening treatment again and again.
• Higher Costs: Going to the dentist for in-office whitening treatment can take a hefty sum from your pocket as compared to the ones that you do yourself at home. Even though professional ones usually give faster and more effective results, they may not be feasible for all budgets. It is essential to consider all the factors involved and consult with a dental expert to make the right decision regarding whitening options.

How to Maintain Your Pearly Whites

To prolong the effects of your teeth whitening treatment, it’s essential to incorporate some solid maintenance habits into your routine. Here are some tips to help you maintain that bright smile:

Adjust Your Diet

• Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks: Certain foods and beverages can quickly counteract your whitening efforts. Limit your intake of coffee, tea, and red wine, as they are recognized as staining foods. You should also avoid dark sodas and brightly-colored juices because they could leave some stains behind as well. Tomato sauce, soy sauce, and even berries might be tasty, but they can also stain your teeth over time.
• Eat Teeth-Friendly Foods: On the other hand, there are plenty of foods that can support your dental health. Foods like apples, carrots, and celery are crunchy fruits and veggies that can clean your teeth while you chew. Plus, they help your mouth produce more saliva, which is great for your teeth! Cheese and yogurt, which is a type of dairy product, is also an excellent choice as it helps to strengthen your enamel.

Use Recommended Whitening Products

• Whitening Toothpaste: Incorporate teeth whitening toothpaste in your everyday use. It can help maintain your results by gently removing surface stains that might accumulate over time.
• Mouthwash with Hydrogen Peroxide: A mouthwash containing hydrogen peroxide can be an effective way to prevent new stains from forming. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in maintaining your bright smile.
• Fluoride Toothpaste: Not only does fluoride toothpaste help keep your teeth strong, but it also helps reduce sensitivity, which can be an issue for some after whitening treatments.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

• Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to keep your teeth clean and bright. Developing a consistent brushing routine is key.
• Don’t forget to floss daily! Flossing helps remove plaque buildup between your teeth, which is crucial for avoiding cavities and keeping your smile looking its best.
• Regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups are also vital. Your dentist can help catch any potential issues early and keep your teeth in top condition.

• By making these dietary adjustments, using the right products, and maintaining a solid oral hygiene routine, you can enjoy the benefits of your whitening treatment for much longer!

Conclusion

If you want a whiter smile, teeth whitening has many solutions to suit your budget and needs. Professional whitening provides quick and dramatic results, while at-home systems enable you to slowly whiten your teeth for less money. Whatever you decide, understanding the prices, advantages, and how to maintain your new smile will ensure your smile stays fantastic. To receive the best and safest results, consult with your dentist before embarking on any whitening treatment.