With cosmetic teeth whitening treatments, you can completely change the appearance of your smile with shinier and brighter teeth.

Nowadays, there are many ways to perform teeth whitening, depending on your convenience and affordability.

However, whenever cosmetic teeth whitening is discussed, the famous question that pops up in everyone's mind is: Is teeth whitening covered by insurance?

Normally, the insurance policies don't cover the cost of cosmetic teeth whitening. However, there can be some exceptions.

This blog explains the popular queries about teeth whitening, so scroll down to learn more.

What is Cosmetic Teeth Whitening?

It is normally a non-invasive dental procedure that improves the appearance of the smile by fixing the discoloration of the teeth, usually by bleaching.

There are several methods to whiten teeth while sitting at your home.

However, if you go for professional cosmetic teeth whitening, it only works on real tooth enamel.

Therefore, it will become a necessity to visit a dentist and replace the old crowns, fillings, and other dental work. Otherwise, the new color of your teeth won't match with the previously done dental work.

Reasons For Considering Cosmetic Teeth Whitening

Fluorosis
Worn out teeth
Discoloration (by drugs or certain food items like coffee, wine, etc.)

Teeth Whitening at Home: 4 Options

Here are some teeth-whitening products for those seeking affordability and ease.

1.Whitening Toothpaste

Abrasive particles are used in some at-home teeth-whitening products, such as whitening toothpaste.

However, these toothpastes contain abrasives that may cause structural damage to the teeth.

2.Whitening Trays

A lot of dentists provide custom whitening trays, which include taking an impression of your teeth and sending a hydrogen peroxide whitening gel home with you.

Over a few weeks, you wear the trays with the gel for a few hours every day.

3.Whitening Strips

These are much cheaper than any professional whitening trays or other treatments. You can get them very easily in the market and can use them several times a week.

If you are concerned about the safety of whitening strips, read this blog.

4.Whitening Pens

These are easy-to-use devices that can clean the surface stains just like the whitening toothpastes.

Although at-home products are effective at removing surface stains, they will never be as good as professional teeth whitening.

Professional Cosmetic Teeth Whitening

Usually, when a person goes for teeth whitening, the dentist fully examines the oral health and suggests the best course of action.

They may offer you take-home whitening kits with a personalized tray, which are available.

This tray, made from a bite impression of your teeth, may fit you comfortably and help the bleaching gel get to all the places it needs to.

Is Teeth Whitening Covered By Insurance?

Three levels of dental treatment are often covered by dental insurance: major procedures, basic care, and preventive care.

The insurance firm offers varying levels of coverage to each tier.

You are responsible for paying for anything that the insurance company does not cover out of pocket.

1.Prevention Care

Sealants, x-rays, and yearly cleanings are examples of preventive treatment. The goal of this kind of care is to stop additional dental issues. If you use an in-network provider, your insurance company will often cover it 100%.

2.Basic Processes

The goal of basic procedures is to treat minor oral issues before they worsen.

Common procedures, including extractions, fillings, and periodontal therapy for gum disease, can fall under this category.

Usually, 80% of basic procedures are covered by an insurance company.

You may need to pay your deductible before coverage begins at this level, depending on your plan.

3.Major Procedures

Major operations are extensive dental treatments meant to address serious issues.

This covers dentures, inlays, crowns, and bridges. Usually, 50% is covered for these.

Your plan may or may not cover major operations, depending on whether you've achieved your annual maximum coverage.

Is Teeth Whitening Covered By Insurance: Payment Options

Since "Is Teeth Whitening Covered By Insurance?" is one of the most asked questions, we'll talk about it first.

1.Insurance Coverage for Cosmetic Teeth Whitening

Since teeth whitening treatments are regarded as cosmetic rather than medically required, dental insurance usually does not cover them.

Nonetheless, there might be some conditions in which insurance would pay for teeth whitening.

Depending on the insurance plan and the terms of coverage, these circumstances may change.

Here are some possible situations:

A medical condition or a side effect of some drugs or treatments may occasionally cause tooth discoloration or staining.
Insurance coverage could be considered if the discoloration is medically required to be treated to avoid a particular dental condition.
Some dental insurance policies may cover cosmetic teeth whitening as part of the restorative procedure if the discoloration is the consequence of a dental injury.

Nevertheless, coverage would normally be restricted to the particular teeth that were harmed, and proof of the injury may be required. Therefore, you must present proof of medical necessity along with documentation.

2.Specialized Plans

Employer-sponsored dental insurance plans may provide optional cosmetic coverage.

For instance, some companies offer Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or Health Spending Accounts (HSAs) that may help people pay for cosmetic teeth whitening.

However, not every employee has these accounts. Apart from these, there are special dental plans for cosmetic dentistry. These plans have higher premiums and unique eligibility criteria.

Should I Choose Cosmetic Teeth Whitening?

A white, brilliant smile can make you feel more confident and better about your look. So, it is everyone's personal opinion to decide whether it is worth the money or not.

Additionally, it may help you create a favorable first impression in your professional and personal life.

Furthermore, whitening teeth may be a wise investment in oral well-being. By eliminating surface stains and discoloration, teeth whitening can help prevent additional damage and decay.

Cost Of Cosmetic Teeth Whitening

The cost of in-office teeth whitening can cost you around $1000 or more.

Alternatively, the at-home whitening kits are usually under $100.

If you opt for over-the-counter products like strips, toothpaste, and gels, you may have to pay between $5 and $100.

Do-it-yourself Whitening Techniques

If you can't afford in-office teeth whitening, use the do-it-yourself whitening treatments.

For instance, you can use hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to clean your teeth. However, dentists don't recommend these techniques because they are not scientifically validated and may result in tooth sensitivity.

So, before using any chemicals on your teeth at home, it is better to either ask a dentist or do some research on the internet.

FAQs

Does cosmetic teeth whitening have any adverse effects?

The most frequent adverse effects are mild gum inflammation and tooth sensitivity, which are typically transient.

How long does the cosmetic teeth whitening procedure take?

While at-home kits must be used daily for one to two weeks, in-office treatments typically take an hour.

For how long do the cosmetic teeth whitening results stay?

Depending on lifestyle factors, including diet, smoking, and dental hygiene, results usually last anywhere from a few months to a few years.

Is it safe to whiten your teeth?

Yes, teeth whitening is usually safe and effective when a dentist carries out the procedure.

How do I know if I shouldn't get cosmetic teeth whitening?

It is not for people with cavities, damaged enamel, gum disease, or other dental conditions. Because of the chemicals, women who are pregnant or nursing should also avoid whitening procedures.

Contact Our Dentists in Kitchener for Cosmetic Teeth Whitening

To learn the precise coverage information "Is teeth whitening covered by insurance?"It is vital to discuss the treatment with your insurance provider from the start.

Cosmetic teeth whitening insurance coverage in Canada is very rare, and these cosmetic procedures usually require out-of-pocket costs. Generally, cosmetic teeth whitening doesn't pose a health risk, yet speaking with a dentist before beginning any kind of treatment is best.

Contact us for information regarding teeth whitening choices, related expenses, and potential financing options.

Cosmetic Teeth Whitening: Is Teeth Whitening Covered By Insurance