Teeth Whitening Cost at a Dentist with Insurance?

Although teeth whitening is generally not considered a medically necessary procedure, as it’s designed to beautify teeth and boost self-confidence rather than improve dental health, it is sometimes covered by insurance.

When people look for services related to teeth whitening at the dentist, they often ask: how much is teeth whitening at the dentist with insurance? Before we answer that question, let’s address another important query: is teeth whitening even covered by dental insurance?

Is Teeth Whitening Covered by Dental Insurance?

Teeth whitening is typically not covered by dental insurance because it’s not considered a necessary medical procedure. However, there are some nuances to consider:

Standard Dental Insurance Doesn’t Cover It

The most basic dental insurance plans don’t provide coverage for teeth whitening. These plans mostly focus on basic procedures, preventive care, and major treatments deemed medically necessary. So, if you have access to a general variant of dental insurance, don’t expect that to cover it. 

Cosmetic Insurance Plans Offer Partial Coverage

There are cosmetic dental insurance plans or riders that offer partial coverage for teeth whitening. However, they are less common and often have higher premium requirements. This is one place that you need to be mindful about which type of insurance coverages you pick. Teeth whitening can be considered a niche issue in most cases, which means a proper assessment is necessary. 

Exceptions When Teeth Whitening is Medically Necessary

If teeth have become discolored due to dental medication or any other type of medication, then teeth whitening may be considered a necessary treatment, potentially covered by some insurance plans.

Getting an insurance company to sign-off on exceptions could be difficult. Therefore, it is prudent to look for all-encompassing dental coverages from the very beginning

Dental Discount Plans

Even though teeth whitening isn’t typically covered by insurance, some dental care facilities offer discounts on cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening.

How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost at the Dentist?

The cost of teeth whitening at the dentist varies widely. In most regions, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $800 for teeth whitening. However, this is just an average figure. The actual cost will vary depending on numerous factors:

1. Type of Whitening Procedure: In-office treatments are usually more expensive as they require specialised assistance and sometimes additional medicines. Take-home professional kits are moderately priced. Some procedures combine in-office and at-home treatments.
2. Number of Sessions Required: Some treatments may require multiple visits, increasing the overall cost.
3. Severity of Discoloration: More severe staining may require more intensive treatments or multiple sessions.
4. Dentist’s Experience and Reputation: Highly experienced dentists may charge higher fees, although a reputable dentist won’t overcharge for teeth whitening services.
5. Dental Office Location: Prices can vary based on the location of the dentist’s office. Urban areas with high patient volumes may have higher charges.
6. Technologies Used: Advanced technologies like laser teeth whitening will have their own associated costs.

How Expensive is Teeth Whitening at a Dentist?

The cost of teeth whitening at a dentist can vary significantly, but it doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive if you find the right dental practice. This article has outlined the nuances of the teeth whitening procedure and highlighted the factors that determine its price.

When considering your next teeth whitening session, carefully assess these factors. However, it’s also wise to take preventive measures to maintain good oral health, potentially reducing the need for teeth whitening in the future.

Remember, the best approach is to consult with a dentist who can provide a personalised estimate based on your specific needs and their current pricing.