Many of us desire a bright, white smile, but unfortunately, stains and discoloration can often get in the way. Thankfully, teeth whitening is an effective solution that can help restore your pearly whites and boost your confidence.
However, the cost of teeth whitening can be a concern for many individuals, especially if they are unsure of whether their insurance covers the procedure. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of teeth whitening with insurance and answer the question on everyone’s mind: how much is teeth whitening with insurance?
Whether you’re looking to brighten your smile for a special occasion or want to feel more confident in your everyday life, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover the cost of teeth whitening with insurance.
The Basics of Teeth Whitening
Before diving into the cost of teeth whitening with insurance, let’s look at the basics of teeth whitening. Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that aims to lighten the color of your teeth. The procedure can be done either in-office or at home, and a few teeth whitening procedures are available.
The most common type of teeth whitening is bleaching, which uses a special gel containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to break down stains and discoloration on the surface of your teeth. Another type of teeth whitening is laser whitening, which uses a laser to activate the whitening gel and speed up the whitening process.
While teeth whitening is relatively simple, it’s important to talk to your dentist before undergoing any whitening treatment. Your dentist will be able to assess the condition of your teeth and determine which type of teeth whitening is right for you.
Different Types of Teeth Whitening Procedures
As mentioned, a few different types of teeth whitening procedures are available. The most common types include:
In-Office Whitening
In-office whitening is a professional teeth whitening procedure done in your dentist’s office. The procedure typically takes around an hour to complete and involves applying a whitening gel to your teeth, which is then activated by a special light. In-office whitening is the quickest and most effective way to whiten your teeth but can also be the most expensive.
At-Home Whitening
At-home whitening is a teeth whitening procedure you can do at home using a whitening kit provided by your dentist. The kit usually includes a whitening gel and custom-made trays that fit over your teeth.
You’ll need to wear the trays for a certain amount each day for a week or two, depending on the strength of the whitening gel. At-home whitening is a more affordable than in-office whitening, but it can also take longer to see results.
Over-The-Counter Whitening
Over-the-counter whitening products are available at most drugstores and supermarkets. These products include whitening toothpaste, whitening strips, and whitening pens. While these products can help whiten your teeth to some extent, they are not as effective as professional whitening treatments and may take longer to see results.
Does Insurance Cover Teeth Whitening?
Now that we’ve covered the basics of teeth whitening, let’s answer the question that’s on everyone’s mind: does insurance cover teeth whitening? The answer, unfortunately, is not straightforward.
Most dental insurance plans do not cover cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening, as they are considered elective rather than necessary. However, if your teeth are discolored due to a medical condition or certain medications, your insurance may cover the cost of teeth whitening as a medically necessary procedure.
If you’re unsure whether your insurance covers teeth whitening, it’s best to check with your insurance provider before scheduling a whitening treatment. Your dentist may also be able to help you navigate your insurance coverage and determine whether teeth whitening is a covered procedure.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Teeth Whitening
The cost of teeth whitening can vary depending on a few different factors. Some of the most common factors that can affect the cost of teeth whitening include:
Type of Whitening Treatment
As mentioned, in-office whitening is typically more expensive than at-home whitening or over-the-counter products. The type of whitening treatment you choose will affect the overall cost of the procedure.
Location
The cost of teeth whitening can also vary depending on where you live. Dental services are more expensive in urban areas, so if you live in a city, you may pay more for your whitening treatment.
Dentist’s Experience
The experience and expertise of your dentist can also affect the cost of teeth whitening. A more experienced and skilled dentist may charge more for their services than a less experienced dentist.
Additional Procedures
If you require additional procedures before or after your teeth whitenings treatment, such as a dental cleaning or a filling, this can also increase the overall cost of the procedure.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost With Insurance?
As mentioned, most dental insurance plans do not cover teeth whitening as a cosmetic procedure. However, if your teeth are discolored due to a medical condition or certain medications, your insurance may cover the cost of teeth whitening as a medically necessary procedure.
If your insurance does cover teeth whitening, the cost of the procedure will depend on your specific plan and the type of whitening treatment you choose. In-office whitening is typically the most expensive option, with costs ranging from $500 to $1,000 or more. At-home whitening kits provided by your dentist may cost anywhere from $300 to $500, while over-the-counter products can range from $20 to $100.
Tips for Maximizing Your Insurance Coverage
If you hope to get teeth whitening covered by your insurance, you can do a few things to maximize your coverage. These include:
Talk to Your Dentist
Your dentist can help determine whether teeth whitening is covered under your insurance plan. They can also provide documentation and justification for the procedure if necessary.
Submit a Claim
If your insurance does cover teeth whitening, be sure to submit a claim for the procedure. Your dentist can help you complete the necessary paperwork and provide any required documentation.
Choose the Right Plan
If you’re considering getting teeth whitening and want to ensure that your insurance covers it, it’s important to choose the right plan. Look for a plan that specifically covers cosmetic procedures, or one that has a broad range of coverage options.
Alternatives to Teeth Whitening With Insurance
If your insurance doesn’t cover teeth whitening or you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider a few alternatives. These include:
Natural Remedies
A few natural remedies can help whiten your teeth, such as brushing with baking soda or using a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water. While these remedies may not be as effective as professional whitening treatments, they can still help improve the appearance of your teeth.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves applying a tooth-colored resin to your teeth to improve their appearance. While bonding is not a whitening treatment, it can help cover up stains and discoloration on your teeth.
Veneers
Veneers are a cosmetic dental procedure that involves placing a thin shell of porcelain or composite resin over your teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can be a more expensive option than teeth whitening, but they can also provide a longer-lasting solution to discolored or stained teeth.
Conclusion: Is Teeth Whitening With Insurance Worth It?
Teeth whitening can be a great way to boost your confidence and restore your pearly whites. While the cost of teeth whitening can be a concern for many individuals, it’s important to remember that options are available, including insurance coverage, at-home treatments, and natural remedies.
If you’re considering getting teeth whitening, talk to your dentist and explore all your options before deciding.
