Teeth Whitening – Auburn, ME

Factors that Affect the Cost of Teeth Whitening

We usually charge a flat rate for teeth whitening services. However, there are some factors that might complicate the situation and lead to variances in price:

• Serious discoloration. Severe stains may be more challenging to address and lead to higher fees.
• The type of staining. Some dental stains are extrinsic (on the tooth enamel), whereas others are intrinsic (inside the teeth). Similarly, certain types of discoloration may be caused by medication or age rather than dietary choices. All of these factors could have a bearing on the price of teeth whitening.
• Additional care. Some patients might need fillings or other restorative care in addition to their whitening service.

Types of Teeth Whitening: What Do They Cost? 

There are four basic categories of teeth whitening, and each comes at a different price point:

• In-office professional whitening. This may cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000. It depends on the specific methods used and a practice’s pricing policies.
• Professional take-home whitening kits. These are usually just a few hundred dollars. They include custom trays that perfectly fit a patient’s teeth. They may also include a formula that is tailored to a patient’s unique needs.
• Over-the-counter whitening trays. These are not custom-fit and often cost less than $100.
• Whitening strips or gels. These products usually cost less than $50 and are easy to find at most pharmacies and big box stores.

Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Inexpensive Teeth Whitening 

When you look at the numbers above, you might wonder why anyone would purchase professional whitening services when cheaper options are so readily available. Simply put, professional whitening offers advantages that you cannot get from over-the-counter products, including:

• Custom whitening trays can reduce the risk that whitening gel will irritate the sensitive soft tissues in your mouth. They are also more comfortable than non-custom trays.
• Professional guidance. Your dentist will take steps to ensure that your whitening journey is as safe as possible.
• Faster, more noticeable results. Many patients have been disappointed after using over-the-counter whitening options. Professional formulas are more powerful and can drastically brighten your smile.

Options for Making Teeth Whitening Affordable

Teeth whitening is considered to be a purely elective cosmetic service, so you should not expect your dental insurance to cover it. However, there are other provisions that might make it easier for you to afford your new look:

• Most patients qualify for low-interest financing through CareCredit. It can enable you to pay for your whitening treatment across several monthly payments.
• Essential Dental Plan. This discount plan provides reduced fees on virtually all the services available in our office.

Would you like a brighter smile? Get in touch with our team today to learn more about teeth whitening and its price.

Does Teeth Whitening Hurt?

Some patients experience a temporary increase in dental sensitivity after they whiten their teeth. It occurs because the whitening formula causes tiny pores in the teeth to open, which can mean that you feel more sensations when your teeth are exposed to hot and cold substances.

Fortunately, the sensitivity usually wears off in just a few days. Plus, because professional whitening treatments are customizable, we can adjust your formula if you are concerned about increased sensitivity and discomfort.

What Is the Difference Between Professional and Store-Bought Teeth Whitening?

There are a few significant differences between professional whitening services and over-the-counter options:

• Professional whitening usually works faster and produces more noticeable results.
• Professional whitening is supervised by dental experts, so you can be confident in its safety and effectiveness.
• Very often, professional whitening is better able to address stubborn stains.
• With professional whitening, your dentist can help you to strategize to hide or reverse complex types of discoloration, such as that caused by aging or certain types of medication.

How Can I Make My Teeth Whitening Results Last?

To help your results last as long as possible, you should:

• Stick to a thorough oral hygiene routine. (It can be helpful to use whitening toothpaste to remove new surface stains.)
• Limit your consumption of highly pigmented foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, and red wine.
• Make it your habit to visit our practice every six months for a cleaning and checkup.
• Perform touch-up whitening treatments as necessary
• Quit smoking, and avoid other habits that might damage or stain your teeth, such as chewing tobacco.

Am I a Candidate for Teeth Whitening?

You might be a candidate for teeth whitening if:

• You would like your teeth to be brighter.
• You do not have any untreated cavities, gum disease, or other oral health problems.
• You do not have any restorations, such as crowns or veneers, on your front teeth. These restorations do not respond to whitening treatments. If you have them and want to brighten your smile, your dentist can formulate a custom plan to help you reach your goals.

The best way to find out if teeth whitening is right for you is to schedule a consultation with our team.

Does Teeth Whitening Damage Enamel?

When you choose professional teeth whitening in Auburn, you can be confident that your enamel will remain protected throughout the process. We use scientifically tested products that are designed to minimize risks to your teeth while achieving effective results. The whitening agents used in our practice are carefully selected to avoid weakening or eroding the enamel layer.

Before beginning any treatment, we will thoroughly assess your dental health to recommend the most appropriate method. Our trained team applies whitening agents with precision and monitors your progress throughout the procedure.

Teeth whitening may only damage your enamel if you use unproven DIY hacks or products that do not have a good reputation. Also, remember that using whitening products too frequently may harm your teeth.

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Treatment Take?

The length of a teeth whitening session depends on several factors, including the method used and your individual needs. In-office treatments typically last between 60 and 90 minutes, delivering noticeable results in a single visit. If you opt for a take-home kit from our office, the process may extend over two weeks, with daily applications as instructed by our team.

We tailor each whitening plan to fit your lifestyle and preferences. The duration may vary based on the degree of staining and the initial shade of your teeth. During your consultation, we will discuss your goals and help you understand the timeline for your treatment.

Does Teeth Whitening Work on Dental Crowns?

Teeth whitening treatments are effective for natural tooth enamel but do not change the color of dental crowns, veneers, or fillings. If you have crowns, these restorations will remain the same shade after whitening, which sometimes results in a mismatched smile. We will evaluate your smile and discuss the best approach to achieve uniform results.

If you desire a consistent shade across your teeth, we may recommend replacing older crowns or restorations after whitening your natural teeth. Our team will help you explore alternatives and create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Is Teeth Whitening Permanent?

Teeth whitening is not permanent, but its results can last for several months to a few years, depending on your oral care habits and lifestyle. Consuming staining foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, or red wine, can gradually diminish the brightness of your teeth over time. Regular touch-up treatments may be necessary to maintain your desired shade.

We will provide you with guidance on how to extend the longevity of your whitening results. Sticking to an excellent oral hygiene routine, scheduling routine dental cleanings, and limiting exposure to staining substances can help you preserve your bright smile for as long as possible.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Professional teeth whitening is a safe procedure when performed under the supervision of our dental team. We use products that are approved by dental associations and follow strict protocols to protect your gums and soft tissues during treatment. Our team can take the time to explain each step and answer any questions you may have about the process. We also will not approve you for teeth whitening if you have untreated cavities or other significant oral health issues, which could increase the risks associated with cosmetic treatment.