The True Cost of Dentist Whitening & Smart Ways to Save
A bright, white smile can boost your confidence, but professional dentist whitening costs can be expensive. Prices range from $300 to over $1,000, depending on the procedure and location.
But the good news? You don’t have to pay full price! With the right strategy—whether through insurance, membership plans, or alternative treatments—you can save big while still achieving a stunning smile.
Let’s break down the real cost of teeth whitening, what affects pricing, and how you can cut costs without compromising quality.
How Much Does Dentist Whitening Cost?
The cost of professional teeth whitening depends on several factors, including the type of whitening, your dentist’s location, and the technology used.
Typical Cost of Different Whitening Treatments
| Whitening Treatment | Average Cost | Duration of Results | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Office Whitening | $300 – $1,000 | 1-3 years | Fastest, most dramatic results |
| Custom Take-Home Trays | $150 – $400 | 6 months – 1 year | Affordable, longer-lasting |
| Over-the-Counter Strips | $20 – $100 | 3-6 months | Budget-friendly, gradual results |
Factors That Influence Dentist Whitening Cost
✔ Type of Whitening – In-office whitening is faster and more effective, but more expensive.
✔ Dentist’s Expertise – Highly experienced cosmetic dentists charge premium prices.
✔ Location – Dental costs vary based on region and demand.
✔ Technology Used – Laser whitening and advanced techniques often cost more.
✔ Insurance & Discounts – Whitening is usually not covered by insurance, but discounts are available.
How to Save Money on Dentist Whitening Costs
Professional whitening doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are the best ways to save while still getting high-quality results.
1. Check If Your Insurance Covers Whitening
Most dental insurance plans don’t cover whitening because it’s considered a cosmetic procedure. However, there are exceptions:
✅ Some premium plans offer discounts on cosmetic dentistry.
✅ FSA/HSA funds can often be used to pay for whitening.
✅ Ask your dentist about payment plans to break costs into smaller payments.
Tip: Call your insurance provider to see if they offer partial coverage or discounts through in-network dentists.
2. Use a Dental Membership Plan for Instant Discounts
One of the easiest ways to save 30-50% on whitening treatments is through an in-office dental membership plan.
What Is a Dental Membership Plan?
Instead of dealing with insurance, you pay a small monthly or annual fee for discounted dental services, including whitening.
| Feature | Membership Plan | Dental Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Covers Whitening? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Waiting Period? | ❌ None | ✅ Often 6-12 months |
| Paperwork & Approvals? | ❌ None | ✅ Yes |
| Upfront Savings? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Monthly Cost | $10 – $30 | $25 – $50 |
Example Savings:
A dentist charges $600 for in-office whitening. With a membership plan, the cost could be $300-$400—saving you up to 50%!
Find a dentist offering membership plans through The Patient Marketplace.
3. Look for Whitening Promotions & Deals
Dentists often run seasonal discounts and package deals on whitening. You can:
✔ Follow your dentist on social media for exclusive discounts.
✔ Ask about package deals (bundling whitening with cleanings).
✔ Search Groupon or dental savings sites for whitening promotions.
Tip: Many dentists offer “New Patient Specials”—take advantage of them!
4. Try Take-Home Whitening Kits from Your Dentist
If in-office whitening is out of your budget, take-home whitening trays from your dentist are a great alternative.
Cost Savings:
✔ Custom trays cost $150-$400 (vs. $600+ for in-office whitening).
✔ Results last 6 months to a year with regular maintenance.
✔ Trays are stronger than store-bought strips and safer for enamel.
5. Use Over-the-Counter Whitening as a Budget Option
If professional whitening is too expensive, consider drugstore options like whitening strips or gels.
| Product | Cost | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Whitening Strips | $20-$50 | Moderate, takes weeks |
| Whitening Pens | $10-$40 | Best for minor touch-ups |
| LED Whitening Kits | $50-$150 | Good for at-home treatments |
Best Practice: Combine OTC whitening with professional cleanings to keep teeth stain-free longer.
Real Story: How a Membership Plan Saved Sarah $400 on Whitening
Sarah, a 35-year-old teacher, wanted to whiten her teeth before her wedding but was shocked by the $800 price tag.
She discovered dental membership plans and found a local provider through The Patient Marketplace.
✅ Original Whitening Cost: $800
✅ Membership Plan Cost: $199/year
✅ Discounted Whitening Price: $400
✅ Total Savings: $400—more than the cost of her plan!
Sarah also got free cleanings, keeping her teeth brighter longer.
Take Action: Get Affordable Whitening Today
Want to save money on dentist whitening costs? Here’s how to get started now:
1️⃣ Check if your insurance covers whitening discounts.
2️⃣ Find a dentist offering membership plans (The Patient Marketplace).
3️⃣ Look for seasonal discounts or new patient specials.
4️⃣ Consider take-home trays for a budget-friendly option.
5️⃣ Use whitening strips or LED kits as a last resort.
Ready to save on whitening? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a dentist near you with affordable options.
Your brighter smile is just one smart decision away!
FAQs About Dentist Whitening Cost & Savings
Is professional whitening worth it?
Yes! Unlike drugstore whitening strips, dentist treatments last longer and give better, faster results.
How long does professional whitening last?
Results can last 6 months to 3 years, depending on your diet and oral hygiene.
What’s the cheapest way to whiten teeth?
Whitening strips ($20-$50) are the most affordable, but take-home trays from a dentist offer better long-term results.
Can I use my HSA/FSA for whitening?
Yes! Many HSA/FSA accounts cover dental whitening—check with your provider.
Where can I find a dentist with discounts on whitening?
Use The Patient Marketplace to find a membership plan and save instantly!
Final Thoughts: Get a Brighter Smile Without Overspending
You don’t have to pay full price for a whiter smile! Whether through membership plans, insurance discounts, or take-home kits, you can save hundreds of dollars while still getting professional results.
✔ Find affordable whitening deals today The Patient Marketplace
Smile brighter, for less!
