Most people want a bright, white smile. And for those who are looking to achieve this without spending a fortune, teeth whitening is a popular option. But is teeth whitening covered by insurance?
The short answer is No – teeth whitening is considered cosmetic and not covered by most dental insurance policies. However, there are some exceptions so it’s important to check with your provider.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at teeth whitening and what dental insurance actually covers. We’ll also explore alternative methods and how much they cost.
Table of Contents
Why Isn’t Teeth Whitening Covered by Insurance?
Teeth whitening is considered a cosmetic treatment and is not covered by most dental insurance plans. This is because the main purpose of teeth whitening is to improve the appearance of your teeth, rather than to treat or prevent any oral health problems.
While there are some medical benefits to teeth whitening (such as reducing staining caused by certain medications), these are typically not enough to convince insurance companies to cover the cost of the procedure.
Another reason why teeth whitening is not usually covered by insurance is that it is considered a relatively affordable treatment.
If you’re looking to get your teeth whitened, there are a few options available to you. You can visit a dentist for professional teeth whitening, or purchase an at-home teeth whitening kit from your local drugstore.
There are also many DIY teeth whitening recipes available (keep reading as we share some of our favorite methods). While at-home teeth whitening kits are not as strong as the ones used by dentists, they can still provide good results if used correctly.
Whatever route you decide to go, just be sure to do your research and talk to your dentist before beginning any teeth whitening treatment. And remember, even though insurance may not cover teeth whitening, there are still many affordable options available to you.
What is the Procedure Like for Teeth Whitening?
There are a few different ways that teeth whitening can be done. The most common method is using a bleaching agent and applying it to the teeth with a mouth guard-like tray.
Another popular method is using a laser to activate the bleaching agent. This method is often done in a dentist’s office and can provide faster results.
Teeth whitening is not a one-time treatment – it will need to be repeated every few months to maintain the results. And keep in mind that teeth whitening will not work on all types of stains (such as those caused by certain medications).
Is Teeth Whitening Covered by Insurance?
As mentioned earlier, most dental insurance policies do not cover cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening. However, some plans may offer discounts on the procedure if it is considered medically necessary.
Is Teeth Whitening Painful?
It can vary from person to person, but generally, the bleaching agent used in teeth whitening is not painful. Some people may experience sensitivity after the procedure, but this is usually temporary.
If you have any concerns about pain or sensitivity, be sure to discuss them with your dentist before beginning the procedure.
Is Teeth Whitening Worth It?
That is a decision that you will have to make for yourself. Some people feel that whiter teeth boost their confidence, while others may not notice a difference.
Ultimately, the decision is up to you. If you are considering teeth whitening, be sure to talk to your dentist about what options are available and whether or not they are right for you.
What Does Dental Insurance Cover?
If dental insurance does not cover the cosmetic treatment of teeth whitening, what does it cover?
- Preventive: Most dental insurance plans will cover 100% of the cost for preventive care, which includes routine x-rays. These can cost about $50 without dental insurance.
- Basic: Basic dental procedures, such as fillings and extractions, are typically covered by dental insurance plans. However, the percentage of coverage may vary depending on your plan but typically they are about 70-80%. These types of procedures cost around $200-$600 without insurance.
- Major: Major dental procedures, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures, are usually not covered by dental insurance plans. Some plans do cover upwards of 50% of these treatments, but you will typically have to pay a large portion out-of-pocket. The cost for a major dental procedure is about $1000-$3000 without insurance.
As you can see, dental insurance typically covers preventive and basic dental procedures, but not cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening. If you’re looking to get your teeth whitened, you’ll likely have to pay for the procedure out of pocket.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost Without Insurance?
The cost of professional teeth whitening can vary depending on the type of procedure you choose and where you live, but it typically ranges from $500 to $1000. If you opt for an at-home whitening kit, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100.
DIY teeth whitening methods are usually the most affordable option, as most of the ingredients needed can be found in your kitchen or local grocery store.
How to Whiten Your Teeth at Home
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly way to achieve brighter teeth, there are plenty of at-home methods that can do the trick. Here are some of our favorite DIY teeth whiteners:
- Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide: This is one of the most popular at-home teeth whitening methods. Simply mix equal parts baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to form a paste, then brush the mixture onto your teeth using a soft toothbrush. Rinse well afterward.
- Lemon Juice and Baking Soda: This method is similar to the one above, but instead of using hydrogen peroxide, you’ll use lemon juice. Simply mix equal parts lemon juice and baking soda, then brush the mixture onto your teeth. Rinse well afterward.
- Strawberries: Believe it or not, strawberries can also be used to whiten teeth! Simply mash up a few strawberries into a paste, then brush the paste onto your teeth. Rinse well afterward.
As you can see, there are plenty of ways to achieve brighter teeth without breaking the bank. Each method only costs about $0.50 to $0.75 per treatment, so you can easily whiten your teeth on a budget.
If you’re looking for an affordable way to improve your smile, try out one of these DIY methods. And remember, always consult with your dentist before beginning.
At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits
If you’re looking for a more convenient way to whiten your teeth, an at-home teeth whitening kit may be right for you. These kits usually come with everything you need to get started, including:
- A whitening gel or solution
- Custom-fit mouth trays
- An LED light (for some kits)
How Effective are Teeth Whitening Kits?
At-home teeth whitening kits are just as effective as professional teeth whitening treatments. In fact, many at-home kits use the same type of bleaching agent (hydrogen peroxide) that dentists use.
The main difference is that at-home treatments take longer to produce results. Typically, you’ll need to use an at-home kit for about two weeks before you start to see a noticeable difference in your smile.
Are At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Safe?
Yes! At-home teeth whitening kits are safe for most people. However, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and avoid using the kit more often than recommended.
If you have sensitive teeth or gums, be sure to choose a kit that’s designed for sensitive teeth. These kits usually contain a lower concentration of bleaching agents and may not produce results as quickly as other kits.
How Much do At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits Cost?
At-home teeth whitening kits are just as effective as professional treatments and usually cost between $20 and $100. However, it’s important not to overuse them as that will end up costing more than necessary.
How to Find Affordable Teeth Whitening
If you’re looking for an affordable teeth whitening option, your best bet is to look for DIY methods or ask your dentist about payment plans. Many dentists will offer interest-free payment plans that can make the cost of teeth whitening more manageable.
You can also look for coupons or discounts on teeth whitening products and services. Groupon is a great resource for finding deals on teeth whitening and other dental services.
Another way to get affordable teeth whitening is to look for a dental school in your area. Dental schools offer reduced-cost dental services as a way to train their students. This can be the most effective way of getting affordable teeth whitening, but it’s important to remember that you’ll be treated by a student dentist rather than a licensed professional.
And finally, some dental insurance plans offer discounts on cosmetic dental procedures like teeth whitening. If you have dental insurance, be sure to check with your provider to see if they offer any discounts on the procedure.
To find the best deal on teeth whitening, it’s important to do your research and compare prices. By taking the time to find an affordable option, you can get the bright smile you’ve always wanted without breaking the bank.
Is Teeth Whitening Right for You?
Teeth whitening is a personal decision and not everyone will feel the need to whiten their teeth. If you are considering teeth whitening, be sure to talk to your dentist about what options are available and whether or not they are right for you.
Here are some questions to ask yourself if you are wondering if teeth whitening is right for you:
- Do you have sensitive teeth or gums? If the answer is yes, then teeth whitening may not be right for you.
- Do you want immediate results? If so, then professional teeth whitening may be a better option for you.
- Are you looking for a more affordable option? If cost is a concern, then at-home teeth whitening or DIY methods may be a better option for you.
- Are you looking for a long-term solution? If you want to maintain your brighter smile, then you’ll need to commit to regular touch-ups.
No matter what your reason is for wanting to whiten your teeth, there is an option available that can meet your needs. Be sure to talk to your dentist about all of your options so that you can make the best decision for yourself.
Is Teeth Whitening Covered by Insurance? (Conclusion)
In short, teeth whitening is not covered by dental insurance. Teeth whitening is considered a cosmetic procedure, and most dental insurance plans do not cover cosmetic procedures. If you’re interested in teeth whitening, you can expect to pay for it out of pocket.
The good news is that there are several alternatives or DIY teeth whitening methods that can be much less expensive than professional teeth whitening. If you’re looking to save money on teeth whitening, you may want to consider one of these options.
