Teeth Whitening Cost Calculator
Compare costs of professional in-office whitening, take-home trays, and over-the-counter options.
Results
Visualization
How It Works
Teeth whitening brightens teeth by removing stains with peroxide-based agents. In-office treatments use higher concentrations with light activation for the fastest results (1 hour, up to 8 shades). Take-home custom trays are a cost-effective middle ground.
The Formula
Annual Cost = (Session Cost + Sensitivity Treatment) x Sessions/Year
Total = Annual Cost x Years
Cost Per Shade = Session Cost / Shades Gained
Total = Annual Cost x Years
Cost Per Shade = Session Cost / Shades Gained
Variables
- In-Office — Zoom/laser whitening, 1 hour, 6-8 shade improvement ($300-$1,000)
- Take-Home — Custom trays with professional-grade gel, 2-4 weeks ($200-$400)
- OTC — Strips or toothpaste, gradual results ($5-$50)
Example
In-office whitening at $650 once per year for 5 years = $3,250 total. OTC strips at $35 four times a year for 5 years = $700 total.
Tips
- In-office whitening gives the most dramatic results in a single visit
- Custom take-home trays offer the best value — near-professional results at lower cost
- Avoid whitening for 48 hours after eating staining foods (coffee, red wine, berries)
- Whitening does not work on crowns, veneers, or fillings
- Sensitivity is temporary — use sensitive toothpaste for a week before treatment