How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?

Understanding Teeth Whitening Prices

If you've searched for teeth whitening pricing, you've probably noticed the wide range of numbers. A whitening treatment can cost anywhere from $30 for drugstore strips to $1,000+ for premium in-office procedures. This guide breaks down what you're actually paying for at each price point.

In-Office Professional Whitening: $300–$900+

In-office whitening is the most expensive option, but it delivers the fastest and most dramatic results. During a single appointment (usually 60-90 minutes), a dental professional applies a high-concentration whitening gel to your teeth, often activated with a special light.

What affects the price:

• Method used: Light-accelerated systems (like Zoom) tend to cost more than gel-only treatments
• Geographic location: Whitening in major metros like NYC or LA typically costs 20-40% more than smaller cities
• Provider type: Cosmetic-focused dental practices often charge premium prices
• What's included: Some offices bundle take-home trays for maintenance; others charge separately

The advantage of in-office whitening is speed and supervision. You walk out with noticeably whiter teeth, and a professional monitors the process to manage sensitivity and protect your gums. For more on local pricing, check our cost comparison page.

Custom Take-Home Trays: $200–$600

Custom trays from your dentist offer a middle ground between professional results and at-home convenience. Your dentist takes impressions of your teeth to create trays that fit precisely, then provides professional-strength whitening gel to use at home.

Treatment typically takes 1-2 weeks of daily use (30-60 minutes per session). Results are more gradual than in-office whitening but often comparable after the full treatment period. Many people find this option more comfortable, especially if they have sensitivity concerns.

Why custom trays cost more than strips: You're paying for the custom fit (which ensures even coverage and minimizes gum irritation), professional-grade whitening gel, and the initial consultation. Many dentists include follow-up visits in the price.

Over-the-Counter Options: $30–$150

Drugstore whitening products are the most accessible and affordable option. This category includes:

• Whitening strips ($30-$60): Thin, flexible strips coated with whitening gel. Popular brands include Crest Whitestrips. Results vary widely.
• Whitening toothpaste ($5-$15): Mildly abrasive or contains low-concentration whitening agents. Mostly removes surface stains rather than changing tooth color.
• LED whitening kits ($50-$150): At-home kits with trays and LED lights. Quality varies significantly by brand.

Over-the-counter products work best for mild staining and maintenance between professional treatments. They're not ideal for significant discoloration or if you have dental work like crowns or veneers (the whitening won't affect these).

What Drives Cost Differences?

Several factors explain why the same basic service can cost $300 at one office and $800 at another:

• Starting shade: More significant discoloration may require longer treatment or multiple sessions
• Sensitivity management: Desensitizing treatments add to the cost
• Office location and overhead: Rent in Manhattan vs. a suburban practice
• Technology used: Newer light-activation systems often command premium prices
• Included follow-up: Touch-up treatments or maintenance products

Is Professional Whitening Worth the Cost?

It depends on your priorities. Professional whitening makes sense if you:

• Want fast, dramatic results
• Have sensitivity concerns (professional supervision helps manage this)
• Have significant staining that strips won't address
• Have dental work and need professional guidance on achieving an even result

Over-the-counter options work well if you have mild staining, want to maintain previous whitening results, or need a budget-friendly approach and are patient with gradual results.

For more detailed answers to whitening questions, visit our FAQ page.