Are you interested in knowing ‘How much does Teeth whitening cost with insurance?’
Many people seek teeth whitening treatments to achieve a brighter smile and boost their confidence. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply to maintain a radiant appearance, teeth whitening has become a popular cosmetic choice. However, one common question people ask is, “How much does teeth whitening cost with insurance?”
Since insurance coverage varies, it’s important to understand whether your policy will help offset the costs. Let us explore the expenses for teeth whitening, the role of insurance in covering cosmetic dental treatments, and how you can make whitening more affordable. If you’re considering getting your teeth whitened, knowing how much teeth whitening costs with insurance can help you plan ahead and make the best financial decision.
Does Insurance Cover Teeth Whitening?
Insurance does not cover teeth whitening because it is considered a cosmetic procedure. It covers treatments that maintain or restore oral health, such as fillings and root canals, and preventive care, like cleanings and X-rays. Since whitening is done to enhance the appearance of your teeth rather than treat a medical condition, it falls outside the scope of standard insurance coverage.
Some exceptions may exist, but they are rare. For example, if tooth discoloration occurs due to trauma or medication side effects, your insurance might cover half of the expense.
Additionally, most basic dental plans do not include cosmetic benefits. Premium plans might offer discounts on whitening treatments or reimburse a portion of the cost as part of an elective service bundle. It’s always a good idea to contact your insurance provider to confirm what your plan covers and whether whitening could be included under any special conditions.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost Without Insurance?
1. Average Cost of In-Office Whitening Treatments
In-office whitening treatments are performed by a dental professional and provide fast, noticeable results. These treatments involve high-concentration bleaching agents and advanced technology, such as Zoom whitening or laser whitening.
- Average Cost: $500 to $1,500 per session
- Zoom Whitening: $600 to $1,200
- Laser Whitening: $1,000 to $1,500
Many people choose in-office whitening for special events like weddings or professional photoshoots.
2. Take-Home Whitening Kits from Dentistsย
Take-home whitening kits provided by your dentist offer a middle-ground option. These kits include customized fitted trays that match the shape of your teeth, along with professional-strength whitening gel.
- Average Cost: $300 to $600
The results are more gradual than in-office treatments, usually taking a couple of weeks, but these kits are more effective than over-the-counter products.
3. Over-the-Counter Whitening Products
Over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products, such as strips, gels, and whitening toothpaste, are the most affordable option, but they provide less powerful results. These products contain lower concentrations of bleaching agents than those used by dentists.
- Average Cost: $20 to $100
These products may take weeks or months to show noticeable results and often require more frequent use to maintain the effect.
How To Reduce Teeth Whitening Cost With Insurance?
1. Scenarios Where Insurance May Contributeย
While insurance generally doesn’t cover standalone whitening treatments, there are cases where it can help reduce costs if whitening is bundled with other dental work. For example:
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Post-procedure touch-ups:ย
If you undergo restorative procedures like crowns or veneers, whitening may be recommended to match your natural teeth with the new restorations. In these situations, some insurance plans may cover a portion.
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Trauma-related discoloration:ย
If your teeth are stained due to injury or illness, insurance might partially reimburse whitening as part of a necessary dental treatment plan.
2. Using FSA or HSA to Pay for Whitening
If your insurance doesn’t cover whitening, you can use Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA) to pay for it.
- FSA and HSA allow you to keep aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses, which may include whitening treatments performed by a dentist.
- Check with your dental office to confirm if the treatment qualifies as an eligible expense under your FSA or HSA.
How To Find Insurance Plans That Cover Teeth Whitening Insurance?
Search for insurance plans that may cover or discount whitening treatments, and ask your provider the following:
- Does dental insurance cover teeth whitening
- Are there any conditions, such as trauma or medical needs, that could allow partial coverage?
- Does my plan offer discounts on elective procedures, including whitening?
- Can I use FSA or HSA funds for whitening treatments?
These questions will help you understand whether any cosmetic coverage or discount programs are available through your current plan.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost With Insurance?
It is important to understand how much teeth whitening costs with insurance to decide how to manage the cost for achieving that brighter smile you desire. Not all insurance plans cover cosmetic procedures, but there are some options, such as bundled services, flexible spending accounts, and discount plans, that may help with the cost. Explore these avenues to find a solution that fits your budget and whitening goals. Remember, investing in a smile is an investment in confidence and overall well-being.
Achieve Your Perfect Smile Today!
At Perfect White Smile in Beverly Hills, CA, we are dedicated to helping you achieve the bright, beautiful smile you deserve. Book your consultation today to learn more about teeth whitening options and how we can assist you.
- New Patients: Call us at (310) 737-8787
- Existing Patients: Call us at (310) 276-4537
FAQs
Will dental insurance cover teeth whitening?
A dental insurance policy does not cover teeth whitening. However, some plans may provide partial coverage if it is a medical necessity.
What are the average costs of teeth whitening without insurance?
In-office treatments range from $500 to $1,500, while take-home kits can cost between $300 and $600. Over-the-counter products are the most affordable, usually between $20 and $100.
Can I use my FSA or HSA to pay for teeth whitening?
You can use your funds from Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account to cover teeth whitening treatments as long as a licensed dental professional performs them.
Are there any financing options available for teeth whitening?
Many dental offices provide financing options and payment plans to help make teeth whitening more accessible. Be sure to ask your dentist about available plans.
