Insurance Coverage for Teeth Whitening – In their quest to find a beautiful and bright smile, a lot of people turn to teeth-whitening procedures, which involve the process of giving their teeth a shining glow. Besides, tooth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that works like magic and gives you the smile of your dreams.
However, if you are interested in undergoing one, it is important for you as an individual to discover the options to get that perfect sparkle. Does insurance cover teeth whitening? This is a very important question that you need to ask before you begin your dental care journey. Moreover, it can affect your decision as to what path to take when choosing.
Insurance Coverage For Teeth Whitening
Generally, dental insurance does not offer coverage for teeth whitening. This is because teeth whitening is not considered a medically necessary procedure but a cosmetic procedure. Moreover, dental insurance usually pays more attention to procedures that are beneficial for dental health. For instance, fillings, cleanings, and crowns, instead of those that is purely aesthetic.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost with Insurance?
Since dental insurance does not cover teeth whitening, having dental insurance will not reduce the cost of your teeth whitening procedures. However, some dental offices may offer financing or payment plans to make the process more affordable.
How Much Does It Cost Without Insurance?
The cost of teeth whitening can differ depending on the method you use. For example, professional in-office teeth whitening costs between $300 and $800, or probably more, depending on the geographic location and the technology used. Over-the-counter options, like whitening trays and strips, are cheaper and range from $20 to $100, but they might not be as effective. On the other hand, take-home kits from dentists cost between $100 and $400.
Here are some examples of teeth-whitening with insurance:
- With the Delta Dental PPO plan, 80% of teeth whitening costs are covered after a waiting period of six months.
- The Guardian Direct Diamond plan gives a 50% reimbursement rate for teeth-whitening services, also following a six-month waiting period.
- Under the Ameritas PrimeStar Access plan, there is coverage of 10% for services rendered by out-of-network providers and 20% for teeth whitening for in-network providers during the first year.
How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?
Although the answer to this varies, the average duration of the effects of teeth whitening can last from a few months to up to 3 years. More importantly, certain factors affect the effect as well. They include smoking, drinking coffee, tea, or wine, and improper maintenance of oral hygiene, which can reduce the whitening effects’ duration.
Here is a table that shows the average length of how long teeth whitening last:
| Treatment Type | How long do the results last? |
| Whitening toothpaste | 3 to 4 months |
| Professional whitening | 1 year |
| Whitening pens | Up to a week |
| Whitening strips | 6 months |
| Custom whitening trays | 6 months to 1 year |
Alternative Teeth-Whitening Options without Insurance
If you do not have dental insurance but need to whiten your teeth, there are a few DIY alternatives that are effective and affordable. They include:
- Teeth-whitening pens and toothpaste.
- DIY whitening methods.
- Custom whitening trays.
- Teeth-whitening strips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which dental insurance plan covers teeth whitening?
Most dental insurance plans do not cover teeth whitening, as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. However, it is always important to check the specifics of your policy plan.
Does insurance cover Zoom teeth whitening?
Similarly to other cosmetic dental procedures, Zoom teeth whitening is not covered by insurance. It is a brand of in-office teeth whitening popular for its quick and noticeable results.
Are there any risks associated with teeth whitening?
When done correctly, teeth whitening is generally safe. However, some may experience temporary sensitivity or gum irritation. It’s important to follow the product’s directions or your dentist’s recommendations to minimize risks.
How can I find out if my dental insurance covers teeth whitening?
The best way to determine coverage is to review your dental insurance policy details or directly contact your insurance provider. They can provide information on what cosmetic procedures, if any, are covered.
Is it worth getting teeth whitening without insurance coverage?
The decision largely depends on your personal priorities and financial situation. If a brighter smile will significantly improve your confidence and you can afford the cost, it may be worth the investment. Consider all options and consult with your dentist to choose the best method.
Are there any circumstances under which insurance might cover teeth whitening?
In general, tooth whitening is not covered. However, if tooth discoloration is due to a specific medical condition and whitening is part of a necessary treatment plan, there might be exceptions. These cases are extremely rare and require thorough documentation and justification.