Whiter teeth are a surefire way to add a touch of brightness to your day. After all, when the sparkle in your teeth matches the glimmer in your eyes, you might just make someone else smile too. But even if you uphold great dental hygiene practices, your teeth can still end up stained over the years and that sparkly white can detour into off-white territory.
So if you’ve been looking into brightening your smile, you might already know treatments like in-chair whitening and (dentist-approved) take-home whitening kits are the best teeth whitening options on the market (more on this later). When choosing between the two, the next important thing to consider is how much they cost. So if your purse strings like to have a say in the matter, we suggest you read on as we take an in-depth look at what you can expect to pay.
How much does teeth whitening cost?
There are two ways to whiten your teeth that dentists recommend; in-chair whitening and dentist-approved take-home whitening kits. So let’s dive into how much each process can cost.
- Zoom in-chair whitening cost
For Zoom in-chair whitening, expect to pay a little more than the take-home kits. This is because it’s so fast and effective. The Zoom process must also be administered by a dental professional to assure its safety and precision. Expect to pay $845 for 4x Zoom 15 minute sessions (all administered in a single appointment) and aftercare. Plus, health rebates are available for this treatment – win!
- Take-home whitening kit cost
Dentist approved take-home kits are just as effective but it will take a little longer to see results. For $445 (partial health rebates are available), you’ll receive a personally moulded mouthguard and a supply of dental strength whitener to use over a time period your dentist recommends.
What influences the cost of teeth whitening?
There are a few main reasons that influence the difference in cost between the 2 recommended styles of teeth whitening.
These include:
- Chemical strength
Zoom whitening uses the strongest whitening solution available that’s activated by an LED light and administered with precision under dental supervision. The whitening solution provided in a take-home kit is still dental strength, but weaker to ensure safety during self-application.
- Result speed
You’ll see results instantly with Zoom in-chair whitening. How good is that?! You’ll receive 4 sessions in a one-off appointment that will leave you walking out the door up to 8 shades whiter. With take-home kits expect to see results in a few days to a few weeks. This is because it’s been formulated to be safe to use without a dentist on hand.
- Longevity of results
This is where you might see a difference between the 2 methods. Zoom whitening is extra long-lasting. In fact, you won’t need a touch up for 12 months or more. Take-home kits don’t last as long and will usually need touching up after 4 months.
- How long does the process take
The best bit about Zoom whitening is that it’s a one-and-done experience. You’ll receive 4x 15-minute sessions in one 60 minute appointment that will result in your perfect shade of white. Take-home kits are a slower process but its more flexible and can be done in your own time. This usually takes 3 to 4 x 20-minute sessions (or as advised by your dentist) and will need to be repeated every 4 months.
- Customisations
With Zoom whitening, you’ll be able to choose the right white for you and get there instantly! This isn’t possible with take-home whitening kits as you’ll need to wait to see how your teeth take to the whitening solution. To reach the whiteness you’re after, be sure to talk to your dentist to discuss any further customisations you require.
If you have any further questions about the different types of teeth whitening available and their associated costs, book in with a dentist today. With us by your side, you’ll feel confident in deciding the most suitable solution for your needs.