How much does teeth whitening cost?

The cost of teeth-whitening may depend on the causes of discoloration and the appropriate treatment to address it. Either way, it can get pricey. 

Whitening external stains

External stains or discoloration of the teeth may be caused by tobacco use or by drinking red wine, coffee, tea or cola drinks over a long period of time. Poor oral hygiene may also cause stains that won’t simply brush away with regular toothpaste. 

External bleaching in a dentist office is often priced “per arch.” An arch refers to 1 full row of teeth on either the upper or lower jaw.  According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the average cost of teeth-whitening per arch in a dentist office is $297.12.¹

Whitening internal stains

Whitening for teeth that are discolored due to internal factors—like genetics, the use of certain medications or simply aging—is far more expensive. As our teeth age, the enamel that helps protect them can become thin and almost translucent. When this happens, the yellower dentin layer of teeth can show through.²    

Whitening these teeth requires internal bleaching—and the average cost is $271.67 per tooth.¹

Prices will vary depending on where you go. While some dental policies may offer an allowance toward cosmetic teeth whitening, it is generally considered to be an elective procedure and is not covered by most dental insurance plans.

There are many at-home teeth whitening options available, including mouth rinses, toothpastes and gel strips. Here are some important factors to consider when comparing professional teeth whitening and at-home teeth whitening:²   

• Strength—Both types use peroxide-based bleaching agents, but in-office teeth whitening can offer a much higher percentage of peroxide than at-home options. The higher the percentage of peroxide, the better the results.
• Price—The cost of at-home teeth whitening will vary depending on the type of system you choose. Visit your local grocery or drug store to explore over-the-counter teeth whitening options and their costs in your area.
• Time—In-office treatments usually take several 30–60 minute visits, while some can be done in a single 2-hour appointment. At-home whitening strips may need to be applied twice a day for 10–14 days, and at-home whitening trays may need to be used from 1 to several hours a day for up to 4 weeks.

Here are a few options you can explore to help pay for a new smile:

• Use your FSA/HSA funds.  
• Comparison shop for the best deal.
• Explore dental savings and discount programs. 
• Ask your dentist if they will accept payments over time.
• Shop for dental insurance plans that offer allowances for teeth whitening.

Humana offers dental insurance plans in certain states that include an allowance for in-office whitening treatments. To explore plans and prices in your area, visit our Humana dental insurance page.