Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| In-Office Professional Whitening | $300 – $1,000 | $300 – $1,000 |
| Custom Take-Home Trays (dentist) | $200 – $500 | $200 – $500 |
| OTC Whitening Strips | $20 – $60 | $20 – $60 |
| OTC Whitening Toothpaste | $5 – $15 | $5 – $15 |
CPT/ADA Code: D9972
What Affects the Cost
- Geographic location (urban areas cost 20-40% more)
- Dentist experience and specialization
- Type of dental insurance plan (PPO vs HMO/DHMO)
- Whether the procedure is classified as preventive, basic, or major
- Lab and material costs
- Number of teeth or surfaces involved
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Not covered (cosmetic)
Most dental PPO plans have an annual maximum of $1,000-$2,500. Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays) is typically covered at 100%. Basic procedures (fillings, simple extractions) at 70-80%. Major procedures (crowns, bridges, implants) at 50%. Many plans have a 6-12 month waiting period for major work.
How to Save Money
- Dental schools offer procedures at 50-70% discount
- Dental discount plans save 20-50% for $80-$200/year
- Ask about payment plans — many dentists offer CareCredit 0% financing
- Community health centers provide sliding-scale pricing
- Get quotes from 2-3 dentists in your area
- Consider dental tourism for expensive procedures
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
No — teeth whitening is considered cosmetic and not covered by dental insurance.
Professional whitening ($300-$1,000) gives faster, more dramatic results than OTC products. Results last 6-12 months. But OTC strips ($20-$60) can achieve similar results over a longer period.
Professional whitening lasts 6-12 months. Touch-ups with take-home trays extend results. Avoid staining foods/drinks (coffee, wine, berries) for longevity.