Does Insurance Cover Teeth Whitening?

Your smile affects every interaction you have, yet years of coffee, wine, and life itself have left their mark on your teeth. Professional whitening can restore your confidence overnight, but there’s that nagging question about cost. In this blog, we’ll explain whether or not insurance will cover teeth whitening, what is typically covered by dental insurance, and how you can get the bright smile you deserve through professional teeth whitening.

4 Min Read:

What Does Dental Insurance Typically Cover?

Many people wonder if their dental insurance will help cover professional teeth whitening. Unfortunately, insurance companies do not cover teeth whitening because they classify it as a cosmetic procedure rather than a medically necessary one. Insurance rarely covers cosmetic procedures, and teeth whitening falls squarely in that category.

Your plan exists to keep your mouth healthy, not pretty—at least according to insurance adjusters. So, what will your insurance actually cover? Most plans cover treatments and procedures that fall into the following three categories:

• Preventative care, such as twice-yearly cleanings and X-rays, often receives full coverage, as maintaining dental health and addressing problems early saves everyone money in the long run.
• Basic procedures, such as cavity fillings, typically see partial coverage, depending on your plan.
• Major procedures, like root canals or crowns, may receive partial coverage, but the amount of coverage can depend on your individual plan and proof that the procedure is medically necessary. 

What Are My Teeth Whitening Options?

Even without insurance help, you do have a few options to whiten your teeth. The potency and longevity of results can vary based on which route you take:

At-Home Options

There are several methods available to try whitening your teeth at home. These options are less expensive than professional treatments but require patience and deliver mixed results.

• Whitening strips from the pharmacy can be applied directly to your teeth twice daily. Follow the box instructions for a couple of weeks to see an improvement, but keep in mind that results vary wildly between users.
• Whitening toothpastes work as the gentlest, slowest option. These cost about the same as regular toothpaste but gradually lighten teeth over months of daily brushing.
• Custom whitening trays from your dentist are the best at-home option, designed to fit your exact mouth shape. You’ll fill them with professional-grade gel and wear them several hours daily, sometimes overnight, watching stains fade over a few weeks.

In-Office Treatment

Professional teeth whitening at a dental office delivers the fastest, most dramatic results because dentists use stronger formulas than anything sold over the counter. Dr. Chad Tomazin and his qualified team offer the GLO Science So Brilliant™ Teeth Whitening System, which combines professional strength gel with LED light acceleration. You’ll see noticeable brightening in a single visit, sometimes lightening teeth by several shades in under an hour.

The process starts with Dr. Tomazin cleaning and polishing your teeth to eliminate any plaque from the surface. He will then protect your gums and apply the whitening solution directly to your teeth. The GLO light accelerates the whitening process while the controlled, professional environment prevents sensitivity issues common with at-home treatments.

After the in-office session, many patients continue their treatment at home with a GLO Science whitening kit to maximize their new, radiant results. 

How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost in the Inland Empire?

Every whitening case involves different factors that directly impact cost. Therefore, your dentist can’t quote you a meaningful price without seeing your teeth first. Your age, the severity of staining, whether you smoke or drink red wine, and certain medications you take all play into the cost.

Although teeth whitening is not typically covered by insurance, many patients view this treatment as an investment in themselves and their dental health. Enhanced self-esteem, motivation to establish a dental routine, and a natural-looking, healthy smile are just a few of the countless benefits that make this treatment worth the cost. 

The best way to receive an accurate teeth whitening quote is to book a consultation with Dr. Tomazin’s office. We’ll assess your specific situation, explain exactly what your teeth need, and give you a detailed quote.

Interested in Teeth Whitening Near Riverside? Book Your Session Today!

Even though insurance won’t help with the cost of professional teeth whitening, getting the radiant smile you want might be closer in reach than you think. For anyone wanting reliable and quick results, professional teeth whitening at Dr. Chad Tomazin’s office in Riverside is a top choice. 

Ready to see what’s possible? Call us today at (951) 686-3666 or fill out our online form to schedule your whitening consultation.