Dr. Tomazin and his Team offer you a wealth of combined experience. We take pride in our ability to communicate and deliver the highest level of dentistry to our patients.
When lack of confidence in your smile impedes your personal and professional pursuits, you want to improve your appearance and get in the game. Dental veneers can be an obvious choice for people embarrassed by chipped, stained, or uneven teeth, but how much will they cost you? We will take a closer look at the cost of porcelain veneers, the factors that may impact the price, and the benefits that veneers offer.
4 Min Read:
What Is the Average Cost of Porcelain Veneers?
The average cost for porcelain veneers nationwide ranges from $925 to $2,500 per tooth. However, the final price varies considerably based on where you have your treatment, the experience of your dentist, and the number of natural teeth you want to cover. While porcelain tends to cost more than other veneer materials, it also provides the most natural, long-lasting results.
What Is Included in the Price of Porcelain Veneers?
Multiple steps go into porcelain veneers, which are usually included in the quoted cost for the treatment, such as:
Initial consultation to discuss your specific goals
Enamel removal from the natural teeth
Creation of teeth impressions, which are sent to a laboratory
Placement of temporary veneers to protect your natural teeth
Laboratory fabrication of your custom veneers
Placement of your new veneers
When you discuss the cost of your procedure with your dentist, make sure all of these steps are included in the final price.
Factors That Impact Porcelain Veneer Cost
With such a wide price range for porcelain veneers, you may wonder what factors account for this variation. Numerous variables are at play, including:
Geographic Location
Areas on the East and West Coasts tend to charge higher prices for cosmetic procedures, including dental veneers. In addition, undergoing treatment in a large city like Los Angeles will likely be more expensive than getting the same treatment in a less populated area.
Experience and Expertise of the Dentist
A dentist who has been working with dental veneers for many years or has special training in this process is likely to charge more than a dentist fresh out of school. While choosing a less experienced (and less expensive) dentist may be tempting, keep in mind the adage, “You get what you pay for.” An experienced dentist is more likely to produce a stellar result and a smile you are proud to flaunt for many years to come.
Number of Teeth Treated
Patients undergoing this procedure can decide how many natural teeth they want to cover. Price is often quoted per tooth for this reason. In some cases, a patient may have a couple of chipped teeth they want to fix, while others may choose to do the entire top or bottom row of teeth. The more teeth you treat, the higher your veneer price will be.
Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Veneers?
Insurance doesn’t usually cover dental veneers, since they are considered a cosmetic treatment. In rare cases, such as a broken tooth or substantial enamel loss, you may be able to get some or all of your procedure covered. However, most porcelain veneers are an out-of-pocket expense.
Are Porcelain Veneers Worth the Cost?
Porcelain veneers are more costly than other types of dental veneers, so are they worth the extra money? The popularity of these veneers suggests that they are indeed effective. Some of the benefits of porcelain veneers include:
Durability, lasting 10–15 years in most cases
Natural look and feel that closely mimics natural teeth
Resistance to stains like coffee, wine, and tobacco
Require less enamel removal than a dental crown
Easy to clean and care for
Protect weakened teeth
Greater confidence and self-esteem
Considering Porcelain Veneers in Riverside, CA?
Porcelain veneers offer years of a beautiful, natural smile you’ll be proud to show off. Dr. Chad Tomazin performs his veneer procedures using holistic, biocompatible dental care that ensures both the safety of his patients and outstanding results. To learn more about our porcelain veneer procedure, call our Riverside office at (951) 686-3666 or complete our online contact form.
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.
Pregnancy often comes with a long list of do’s and don’ts, along with another long list of the ways your body will change during this time. If you’re expecting, you may know that pregnancy can sometimes lead to changes in oral health, from gum disease to an increased risk for cavities. However, what if you want to boost your confidence by whitening your teeth? Is it safe? In this blog, we’ll go over what you need to know about keeping your teeth sparkling white during pregnancy while still protecting your body and your baby.
Are Teeth Whitening Strips Safe to Use When I’m Pregnant?
Most over-the-counter teeth whitening strips use hydrogen peroxide as their active ingredient. Peroxide and other chemicals could potentially be absorbed into the body through the oral tissues, which is still generally safe for the average user. However, when it comes to using whitening strips during pregnancy, there’s not enough research to definitively say that yes, whitening strips are safe, or no, they’re not. For this reason, you may want to focus on your oral hygiene habits and wait to apply those whitening strips until after delivery.
Another reason to wait to whiten is that pregnancy can increase gum sensitivity, which may make at-home whitening treatments more uncomfortable or cause tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.
Can I Get My Teeth Professionally Whitened While Pregnant?
Professional whitening treatments at your dental office also use peroxide-based solutions; however, the ingredients are often in much higher concentrations than those found in over-the-counter strips. Again, due to the lack of research confirming the safety of teeth whitening products for expectant mothers, most dentists refrain from performing professional whitening treatments during pregnancy.
Even if the treatment were definitively deemed safe, sitting in a dental chair for extended periods can be uncomfortable during pregnancy. For these reasons, professional whitening is typically postponed until after the baby is born and, in some cases, after breastfeeding is complete.
Top 3 Reasons to Wait to Get Your Teeth Whitened Until After Your Baby Is Born
Besides the lack of research-backed evidence to guarantee that whitening your teeth is harmless during pregnancy, there are other reasons to wait to whiten your teeth until after delivery, including:
1. Increased Tooth Sensitivity
Hormonal changes can make your gums and teeth more prone to irritation in general. The chemicals in whitening products could add to that discomfort.
2. Temporary Results
Pregnancy-related changes like morning sickness and increased dryness or acidity in your mouth can affect the enamel of your teeth, potentially shortening the longevity of your whitening results.
3. Peace of Mind
Waiting until after delivery to whiten your teeth ensures you can undergo the treatment (either at home or in-office) without worry, allowing you to enjoy your brighter smile without stress.
Safe Ways to Keep Your Teeth White During Pregnancy
While you may need to postpone whitening strips and in-office treatments, there are still safe and effective options for maintaining a healthy, bright smile while pregnant, including:
Brushing twice daily to prevent plaque buildup
Flossing once a day to prevent gingivitis
Rinsing after exposing your teeth to acid (whether from morning sickness or acidic foods) to protect your enamel
Eating crunchy fruits and vegetables to naturally help scrub away stains
Limiting stain-causing drinks like coffee, tea, and soda
Most importantly, schedule regular dental cleanings. Professional cleanings are safe during pregnancy and can significantly improve the health and appearance of your teeth.
Interested in Teeth Whitening in Riverside?
Pregnancy gives you a lot to smile about, so it’s natural to want whiter teeth. However, safety is always the top priority. Since whitening treatments aren’t well-studied in expectant mothers, waiting until after your baby is born to use teeth whitening strips is your safest bet. In the meantime, focusing on good dental care with Dr. Chad Tomazin, as well as safe methods for reducing surface stains, will help keep your teeth looking their best. Once your pregnancy is behind you, you can confidently explore whitening options in the Inland Empire with Dr. Tomazin by calling (951) 686-3666 or completing the online contact form.
Have you noticed that your once pearly-white teeth are starting to dull and lose their luster? Whether it’s coffee, red wine, smoking, or just the inevitable passage of time, your teeth can eventually lose their sparkle. And in a world full of selfies, video calls, and social media, it’s natural to want to put your brightest smile forward, so that’s where teeth whitening comes in. However, many people have questions about how safe whitening or bleaching is for their teeth. In this blog, we’ll explore what you need to know about teeth bleaching so you can approach the treatment with confidence.
The terms “teeth bleaching” and “teeth whitening” are often used interchangeably, but technically, they’re a little different. First, let’s talk about the types of stains that whitening can address. Extrinsic stains are stains on the surface of your teeth from food and drinks, smoking, and other outside causes. Intrinsic stains are stains on the internal structure of your teeth, typically from trauma, medications, or age.
Teeth whitening products, whether professional or over-the-counter, utilize peroxide-based bleaching chemicals, like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Known as bleaching agents, these compounds break down discoloration and stains on the tooth’s surface. Stronger formulations can also penetrate safely into the deeper layers of your tooth, whitening teeth from the inside and restoring a radiant smile.
However, the strength of the bleaching agent can vary quite a bit between at-home and in-office treatments, which impacts both their effectiveness and their potential for side effects. So yes, the bottom line is that all teeth bleaching is a form of whitening, even when the concentration of the bleaching agent varies.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Teeth Bleaching?
When deciding if teeth bleaching is right for you, it’s important to weigh the benefits and potential downsides.
Pros:
Teeth bleaching offers noticeable results, lightening your teeth by several shades (sometimes in just one session).
A whiter smile can boost your confidence, making you feel more attractive, youthful, and self-assured.
In-office whitening treatments can produce gorgeous results in a short amount of time, while at-home treatments are easy to incorporate into your busy schedule.
Cons:
Bleaching can cause temporary tooth sensitivity, making your teeth more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.
If the bleaching agent comes into contact with your gums, it can irritate or even burn them.
Comparing At-Home Teeth Bleaching to In-Office Teeth Bleaching
If you’ve decided to try bleaching your teeth, your next decision is how you want to do it: at home or at your dentist’s office.
At-Home Teeth Bleaching
Teeth whitening or bleaching kits are easy to purchase online or in-store. Common options include:
Whitening strips
Bleaching trays with gel
LED light kits
Whitening pens
At-home whitening options offer convenience and affordability, making them a popular choice. However, the downsides include slower results (due to a lower concentration of bleaching agents), less precise results, and a higher risk of side effects like tooth sensitivity.
In-Office Teeth Bleaching
Performed under the supervision of a dental professional, in-office teeth whitening options use higher concentrations of peroxide and LED lights or lasers to enhance your results.
In-office whitening options provide dramatic results in a short time and the ability to tailor the treatment to your specific needs and goals. Even though they use higher concentrations of bleaching agents, the procedure is performed by a professional, so there are more safety precautions and a reduced risk of gum irritation or tooth sensitivity. However, in-office whitening treatments are significantly more expensive and require time away from your day to attend an appointment.
Which Teeth Bleaching Option Is Best For Me?
Choosing the best teeth bleaching method depends on a few key factors, including your budget, the level of convenience you’re looking for, and how fast you want to see results. If budget and convenience are key, at-home kits might be the way to go. But if you want professional-level results with expert oversight, in-office bleaching is hard to beat.
Still unsure? Your best bet is to ask the skilled professionals at Dr. Chad Tomazin’s office. They will evaluate your oral health, recommend products, or offer in-office options tailored to your desired results.
Tips For Safely Bleaching Your Teeth
Whether you opt for in-office or at-home whitening, here are some tips to help you bleach your teeth safely and effectively:
Talk to Your Dentist First
Even if you’re going the at-home route, it’s smart to get your dentist’s input. They can let you know about any issues you may have (like cavities or gum disease) that might make bleaching unsafe.
Follow Bleaching Instructions to the Letter
This isn’t the time to skim the instructions. Too much bleach or leaving it on too long can lead to enamel damage and painful gum irritation.
Don’t Overdo It
When it comes to teeth bleaching, more isn’t better. Frequent bleaching can thin your enamel and make your teeth more sensitive.
Use a Toothpaste to Help Sensitivity
If you experience discomfort after teeth bleaching, switch to a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and avoid very hot or cold drinks for a few days.
Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks After Bleaching
Steer clear of coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and tomato-based sauces for at least 24–48 hours after your whitening session. Your teeth are more porous right after bleaching and can stain more easily.
Keep Up With Your Oral Hygiene
Whitening works best on clean, healthy teeth. Brush and floss regularly, and see your dentist for cleanings at least every six months.
Learn More About Teeth Whitening in Riverside
So, is it safe to bleach your teeth? Yes—as long as it’s done correctly. Teeth bleaching can be an easy and effective way to enhance your smile, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. To learn more about your teeth whitening options in the Inland Empire, schedule an appointment with Dr. Chad Tomazin today by calling (951) 686-3666 or completing the online contact form.
One of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures is teeth whitening, and for good reason. A sparkling white smile can give you confidence in both business and social interactions, making it something many people choose to undergo before a special event or when they just need a boost in their self-esteem. However, many of our patients want to know more about teeth whitening, especially how long it lasts and how they can extend their results. In this blog, we’ll go over what you need to know about teeth whitening, including the longevity of your results and how to keep your smile bright for as long as possible.
What Causes Your Teeth to Stain or Darken?
Before we talk about teeth whitening and how long your teeth will stay white after treatment, it helps to understand why you might need whitening in the first place.
There are two main types of stains that affect your teeth: extrinsic stains and intrinsic stains. Extrinsic stains are surface-level stains caused by things like coffee, tea, red wine, soda, and tobacco. Even foods like berries or tomato sauce can stain your teeth because of their pigmentation and acidity levels. Intrinsic stains originate from deeper levels of your teeth and are a result of aging, certain medications, or too much fluoride when your teeth are developing. Genetics can also play a role, as the thickness and quality of your tooth enamel contribute to how easily your teeth stain.
Additionally, your lifestyle habits, diet, and oral hygiene can also influence the severity of teeth staining, as well as how much they can be whitened and how long the treatment lasts.
How Long Does It Take to Whiten Your Teeth?
The good news is that no matter what type of staining or discoloration you have on your teeth, they can typically be minimized or even eliminated by teeth whitening treatments. The question is, how long does it take to see results? If you have time, at-home whitening treatments can be a convenient and economical way to restore a sparkling smile. Whitening kits (especially ones provided by your dentist) can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the concentration of the whitening gel and how long you leave the trays in each day.
Whitening strips or other over-the-counter teeth whiteners may take two to four weeks to show noticeable results, so plan accordingly. The fastest and often easiest teeth whitening is typically done in your dentist’s office, with treatments taking about 60–90 minutes. Professional, in-office treatments can also give you more dramatic results in just one visit.
Keep in mind that the level of whiteness you can achieve also depends on the severity and type of staining you have, your natural tooth color, and the strength of the whitening treatment.
Is It Safe to Bleach Your Teeth?
The terms “whitening” and “bleaching” are often used interchangeably, but they’re not necessarily the same. Bleaching your teeth usually means that you’ve used a peroxide-based treatment to lighten your teeth. Whitening can mean the same thing, but also includes the use of other methods or ingredients for whitening.
Most professional teeth whitening products use either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to break down and lessen the appearance of stains. These ingredients are proven effective and safe overall, especially in the concentrations used by dentists.
However, peroxide-based whiteners may cause some people to experience side effects like:
Temporary tooth sensitivity
Gum irritation (especially if the whitening gel touches your gums for too long)
Uneven results, especially if you have dental crowns or veneers that don’t respond to whitening like natural teeth
Peroxide-based products can often lighten teeth up to seven shades, depending on the type of staining you have. Non-peroxide products may not offer as dramatic a result, but the risk of side effects is reduced. If you have questions about how a product may affect your teeth, contact your dentist before trying it.
How Long Will My Teeth Whitening Results Last?
So, when you’re thinking about investing time, effort, and money into whitening your teeth, the big question is, “How long do teeth whitening results last?” On average, your teeth whitening results can last from about six months up to two years. The exact timeline depends on several factors, including:
The type of whitening treatment (in-office results usually last longer than over-the-counter ones)
How often you consume drinks or foods that stain your teeth (and if you do, try to use a straw or rinse your mouth out with water afterward)
How well you maintain your oral hygiene (including using whitening toothpaste or mouthwash)
Whether or not you smoke or use tobacco products
If you’re careful about what you eat and drink, brush and floss consistently, and touch up every now and then with whitening toothpaste or strips, your smile can stay white and bright for quite a while. Many people also may choose to undergo a touch-up treatment in-office every six to twelve months to better maintain their results. The best way to determine how to keep your whitening results dazzling for as long as possible is to talk with your dentist and get their expert advice about a maintenance plan that works for your lifestyle.
Learn More About Teeth Whitening in Riverside
If you’re looking for a quick and often dramatic way to give your smile a makeover, teeth whitening is an excellent choice. To learn more about your teeth whitening options and what method will work best for you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Chad Tomazin and his team of skilled professionals by calling (951) 686-3666 today or completing the online contact form.
Dr. Tomazin and his Team offer you a wealth of combined experience. We take pride in our ability to communicate and deliver the highest level of dentistry.
