Dental Treatment Guide
Teeth Whitening Cost
Compare professional vs at-home whitening by price, strength, timeline, and result longevity.
Teeth whitening cost range
Costs range from $20 OTC strips to $1,000 in-office whitening. Price largely reflects peroxide strength, precision, and professional supervision.
| Method | Cost | Typical strength | Timeline | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-office professional | $500–$1,000 | 25–40% hydrogen peroxide | 1 visit | 1–3 years |
| Take-home custom trays | $300–$600 | 10–22% carbamide peroxide | 2–4 weeks | 1–2 years |
| OTC strips | $20–$80 | 6–10% hydrogen peroxide | 14–30 days | 4–12 months |
| OTC LED kits | $50–$150 | 6–16% peroxide equivalents | 7–14 days | 6–12 months |
What you’re paying for
- Professional isolation of gums to reduce burns/sensitivity
- Higher-strength gels and controlled application
- Predictable shade outcomes (less uneven whitening)
- Often a touch-up kit for maintenance
Insurance reality
Most dental plans classify whitening as cosmetic and do not cover it. FSA/HSA eligibility is uncommon unless medical necessity is documented.
Value tip: Custom trays can be reused. If you want ongoing whitening, trays + refill gel often win on long-term cost.