By admin Do you long for a brighter smile? If so, you may find yourself browsing drugstore shelves, wondering: Do these products really work, or should I invest in professional whitening treatment?
In this article, we break down the key differences between professional teeth whitening and at-home kits. We also answer common questions, such as “How much is teeth whitening at the dentist with insurance?”
How does professional teeth whitening work?
During a professional teeth whitening session, your dentist will use a highly concentrated bleaching solution to break down stains. Depending on your treatment type, they may pair this solution with a laser to speed up the process.1
If you have sensitive teeth, your dentist can adjust the bleaching solution and duration accordingly. They can also apply a barrier gel or rubber shield to your gums to prevent irritation.
Thanks to this personalized approach, professional whitening may mitigate discomfort and provide more even results across your teeth. Better yet, these in-office treatments can often brighten your smile by several shades in just one visit.
How do at-home teeth whitening kits work?
At-home whitening kits are a convenient choice for those who prefer to whiten their teeth on their own schedule. Popular options include:
- Whitening strips
- Paint-on gels
- Moldable trays
Over-the-counter bleaching agents are weaker than the ones used during professional whitening sessions. As a result, you’ll have to use at-home whitening kits consistently over several weeks to see noticeable improvements.
Although at-home kits take longer to show results, they are a more budget-friendly choice when compared to professional whitening treatments.
Pros and cons of professional teeth whitening vs. at-home kits
Now that you understand how both types of treatments work, let’s review their pros and cons.
Professional teeth whitening
The benefits and drawbacks of professional whitening treatments are outlined below:
Pros:
- Faster, more dramatic results
- Professional application and oversight
- Protection against gum irritation and tooth sensitivity
Cons:
- Higher upfront costs
- Less convenient
At-home teeth whitening kits
Over-the-counter whitening kits come with the following pros and cons:
Pros:
- Lower initial cost
- Convenience and accessibility
Cons:
- Slower, less noticeable results
- Higher risk of uneven results
How to prepare your teeth for a whitening treatment
Whether you opt for an in-office treatment or an at-home kit, you can enhance your results by preparing your teeth properly. You can do so by following these steps:
- Schedule a professional cleaning: Visit your dentist to remove any plaque and tartar. Whitening agents can’t penetrate this buildup, so a thorough cleaning is necessary for even results.2
- Use desensitizing toothpaste: Switch to a desensitizing toothpaste a few weeks before whitening. This simple step can strengthen your enamel and reduce discomfort during treatment.
What does tooth whitening cost without insurance?
While everyone dreams of a million-dollar smile, it’s important to make sure teeth whitening fits your budget before selecting a treatment method. Here are the average costs for each option:
- Professional teeth whitening: In-office whitening treatments cost an average of $463 to $1,368 per session.3 While these treatments have higher upfront costs, they can provide much faster results than you can achieve at home. In-office treatments can also reduce the need for frequent touchups.
- At-home whitening kits: At-home kits may cost as little as $25.4 While these products are more affordable, you may need to purchase several kits over a longer period of time to achieve your desired results.
Does dental insurance cover teeth whitening?
Professional teeth whitening and at-home kits are both considered cosmetic treatments. As a result, they typically aren’t eligible for dental insurance coverage.
However, dental insurance may still help you save money as you pursue a brighter, whiter smile. The right plan may help pay for your professional dental cleaning before you begin a whitening procedure, paving the way for a more successful outcome.
How to determine the best approach to achieve a brighter smile
In summary, professional teeth whitening and at-home bleaching kits serve similar purposes. The best option for your smile depends on your goals, timeline and budget.
If you’re looking for fast results with expert guidance, professional treatments are a great choice. If lower costs and increased convenience are higher priorities, at-home whitening kits may be sufficient.
No matter which whitening method you choose, booking a professional dental cleaning in advance can enhance your results.