Professional teeth whitening at a dental office typically costs between $300 and $800 for in-office treatment, which delivers results in approximately one hour. Take-home whitening trays from your dentist typically cost between $200 and $400 and provide gradual results over one to two weeks. Over-the-counter whitening products are the most affordable option at $20 to $100, but produce less dramatic results than professional treatments.
Understanding your whitening options helps you choose the method that fits both your budget and your smile goals. Professional whitening delivers faster, more noticeable results, while store-bought products offer convenience at a lower price point.
In-Office Teeth Whitening Cost
In-office teeth whitening, also called chairside whitening, typically costs $300 to $800 per session. This professional treatment uses high-concentration whitening gel that is not available over the counter, often combined with a special LED light to accelerate the whitening process.
The higher cost reflects several advantages. You receive supervised care from dental professionals who protect your gums and soft tissues during treatment. The whitening agents are stronger than anything you can buy in stores, delivering more dramatic results. Most patients see their teeth brighten by several shades in a single visit lasting 60 to 90 minutes.
Popular in-office whitening systems include Zoom, Opalescence Boost, and laser whitening. Prices vary based on the specific system used, your geographic location, and the dental practice. Some offices charge more for treatments that include multiple whitening sessions or touch-up trays for home use.
At Gentle Dental of NJ, our in-office whitening uses a medical-grade bleaching gel that is both powerful and gentle on your teeth. The gel formula is advanced and pH-balanced to maximize whitening while minimizing sensitivity.
Take-Home Whitening Trays Cost
Professional take-home whitening kits from your dentist cost between $200 and $400. These kits include custom-fitted trays made from impressions of your teeth and professional-strength whitening gel to use at home.
Custom trays fit your teeth precisely, ensuring the whitening gel contacts your enamel evenly and stays in place during treatment. This results in more consistent whitening compared to one-size-fits-all strips or generic trays. Your dentist provides specific instructions on how long to wear the trays each day and how many days to continue treatment.
Results from take-home trays develop gradually over one to two weeks of daily use. While this takes longer than in-office whitening, some patients prefer the convenience of whitening at home on their own schedule. The custom trays can also be reused for touch-up treatments later, making this a good long-term investment.
Take-home kits are a middle ground between expensive in-office treatment and inexpensive store-bought options. You get professional-strength results with the flexibility of home application.
Over-the-Counter Whitening Products Cost
Over-the-counter whitening products range from $5 to $100, depending on the type and brand. These products are widely available at pharmacies, grocery stores, and online retailers.
Whitening toothpaste costs $5 to $15 and is the most affordable option. These toothpastes contain mild abrasives or low concentrations of whitening agents that remove surface stains over time. Results are subtle and require consistent daily use over several weeks. Whitening toothpaste works best for maintaining results after professional whitening rather than dramatically changing tooth color.
Whitening strips cost $20 to $50 for a treatment course. These thin, flexible strips are coated with peroxide-based gel and applied directly to teeth for a specified time, usually 30 minutes to two hours daily. Results vary by brand and concentration, but most users see noticeable improvement within one to two weeks of consistent use.
LED whitening kits cost $50 to $100 and include whitening gel plus a light-emitting mouthpiece designed to accelerate the whitening process. Results and effectiveness vary significantly between products. Some deliver noticeable results while others produce minimal change.
Professional Whitening vs Store-Bought: Which Is Worth It?
Deciding between professional whitening and store-bought products depends on your goals, budget, and timeline.
Professional whitening is worth the investment if you want dramatic results quickly. In-office treatment can brighten teeth by six to eight shades in one appointment. The higher cost buys you stronger whitening agents, custom application, professional supervision, and faster results. If you have a wedding, job interview, reunion, or other important event coming up, professional whitening delivers the transformation you need.
Store-bought products make sense for minor touch-ups or maintaining results between professional treatments. They work well for surface stains from coffee or tea, but struggle with deeper discoloration. If you have realistic expectations and patience for gradual results, over-the-counter options can improve your smile at a fraction of the cost.
Keep in mind that professional whitening typically lasts longer than store-bought results. The stronger formulas penetrate deeper into the enamel, and your dentist can address issues that might limit the effectiveness of home products. When you factor in longevity, professional whitening often provides better value per month of results.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Teeth Whitening?
No, dental insurance does not cover teeth whitening because it is considered a cosmetic procedure. Insurance plans only cover treatments that are medically necessary, and whitening is purely aesthetic.
You will need to pay for whitening out of pocket, regardless of which method you choose. However, you can use funds from a Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account to pay for professional whitening, as cosmetic dental procedures often qualify as eligible expenses. Check with your plan administrator to confirm eligibility.
Some dental practices offer promotions or package deals on whitening services. Ask about specials for new patients or discounts when combining whitening with other cosmetic services.
Am I a Good Candidate for Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening works well for most adults with healthy teeth and gums who want to brighten their smile. The best candidates have yellow or light brown staining from food, drinks, or smoking. These extrinsic stains respond very well to bleaching agents.
You may need to consider alternatives if you have certain conditions. Intrinsic stains, which are discoloration from within the tooth caused by medications, trauma, or fluorosis, do not respond as well to whitening. In these cases, veneers or bonding may achieve the results you want.
Whitening does not change the color of dental work. If you have crowns, veneers, or tooth-colored fillings on your front teeth, they will remain their current shade while your natural teeth lighten. This can create a mismatched appearance. Your dentist can discuss options for achieving a uniform smile.
If you have untreated cavities, gum disease, or extremely sensitive teeth, your dentist may recommend addressing these issues before whitening. Starting with a healthy mouth ensures the best results and most comfortable experience.
During your consultation, your dentist will examine your teeth and discuss your goals to determine if whitening is right for you and which method will deliver the best results.
What to Expect During Professional Teeth Whitening
Knowing what happens during in-office whitening helps you feel prepared and relaxed for your appointment. The process is straightforward, and most patients find it comfortable.
Your appointment begins with a quick cleaning and shade assessment. Your dentist or hygienist will polish your teeth to remove surface plaque and take a before photo to document your starting shade. This allows you to see the difference after treatment.
Next, your dental team protects your soft tissues. A cheek retractor keeps your lips away from your teeth, and a protective barrier is applied to your gums. This ensures only your teeth are exposed to the whitening gel.
The whitening gel is then applied to the front surfaces of your teeth. Depending on the system, an LED light may be positioned to activate the gel and accelerate the whitening process. The gel remains on your teeth for about 15 minutes per round.
Most treatments involve two to three rounds of gel application, with shade checks between rounds. Your dental team monitors your progress and can adjust treatment as needed. Throughout the process, you can relax in the chair. Many patients listen to music or watch something on their phone.
After the final round, all gel is rinsed away, and a fluoride or desensitizing treatment is often applied to reduce sensitivity. The entire appointment takes about 60 to 90 minutes. You will see your results immediately in the mirror.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
Professional teeth whitening results typically last six months to two years, depending on your habits and maintenance routine. In-office treatments generally last longer than store-bought products because the stronger formulas penetrate deeper into the enamel.
Several factors affect how long your results last. Consuming staining foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries will gradually diminish your brightness. Smoking or using tobacco products significantly shortens whitening results. Your natural tooth characteristics also play a role, as some people’s teeth simply hold whitening better than others.
You can extend your results with good habits. Use a straw when drinking staining beverages to minimize contact with your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water after consuming coffee, tea, or wine. Brush twice daily with a whitening toothpaste to maintain brightness. Avoid tobacco products.
Touch-up treatments help maintain your results long term. If you received professional take-home trays, you can use them periodically for quick refreshers. Some patients schedule in-office touch-ups every six to twelve months to keep their smile bright.
Professional Teeth Whitening in Newark, NJ
At Gentle Dental of NJ, our cosmetic dentistry team helps patients achieve brighter, more confident smiles with professional teeth whitening. Led by Dr. Eugene Bernstein, DDS, a general and cosmetic dentist with over 25 years of experience, we use advanced whitening techniques that are both effective and gentle on your teeth.
Our in-office whitening treatment uses medical-grade bleaching gel that can brighten your smile by several shades in about an hour. We take every precaution to protect your gums and minimize sensitivity. Before treatment, we ensure your teeth and gums are healthy and discuss realistic expectations based on your specific situation.
We understand that a whiter smile is an investment in your confidence. Whether you are preparing for a special event or simply want to feel better about your appearance, our team is here to help you achieve your goals.
Gentle Dental of NJ is located at 290 Ferry Street in Newark’s Ironbound neighborhood, just five minutes from Newark Penn Station. We offer extended evening hours and Saturday appointments to fit your busy schedule. Our team speaks English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
Ready to brighten your smile? Call us at 973-817-8888 to schedule your teeth whitening consultation and learn which option is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does teeth whitening hurt?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during professional whitening. Some people notice temporary sensitivity to hot and cold for a day or two after treatment. Your dental team can apply a desensitizing treatment after whitening to minimize this effect. If you have naturally sensitive teeth, let your dentist know beforehand so they can take extra precautions.
How many shades whiter can I get?
Professional in-office whitening can brighten teeth by six to eight shades in a single treatment. Take-home trays typically achieve four to six shades of improvement over one to two weeks. Results vary based on your starting shade, the type of staining, and how your teeth respond to whitening. Your dentist can give you a realistic expectation during your consultation.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have sensitive teeth?
Yes, but your dentist may recommend modifications to reduce sensitivity. This might include using a lower concentration gel, shorter application times, or applying desensitizing products before and after treatment. Take-home trays with gradual application may also be more comfortable than in-office treatment for sensitive patients.
How soon before an event should I whiten my teeth?
For in-office whitening, scheduling your appointment one to two weeks before your event is ideal. This allows any temporary sensitivity to resolve and gives your tooth color time to stabilize. For take-home trays, start two to three weeks ahead to complete the treatment course before your event.
Disclaimer
Medically reviewed by Dr. Eugene Bernstein, DDS. This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.