Dental discoloration can affect a person’s beauty and smile. Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that helps remove stains to deliver a brighter smile. The treatment is a quick way to improve the brightness and whiteness of your smile. Moreover, it gives you the confidence to smile and express yourself. Here is all the information you need to know about teeth whitening procedures and their costs to help you make a sound decision.

1. Over-the-counter treatment
Many over-the-counter teeth whitening products, ranging from toothpaste, gel, rinses, and strips, are available. The costs of these products can vary from $5 to $50. They are the cheapest form of whitening, but experts believe that they are less effective.

2. Take-home treatment
Custom-made whitening trays are at-home whitening treatments. The costs range between $200 and $600. They are effective treatments for whitening your teeth if you are on a budget or if you want to whiten your teeth in the convenience of your home.

3. In-office whitening
For dramatic, long-lasting whitening results, go for in-office care. The cost can range anywhere between $400 to $1000. The whitening cost varies, depending on the type of whitening you choose, the dentist’s fees, and the duration of treatment. Also, the cost of whitening treatments can increase if you have any issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, enamel erosion, or hypersensitivity. These problems have to be fixed to prevent sensitivity, which raises the total cost.

Complications
Though teeth whitening is a safe procedure; it comes with possible side effects or complications. These side effects can occur more commonly if you are using an over-the-counter product. A dentist will take precautions to minimize the risks of these complications.

1. Teeth sensitivity
If you have weak enamel or the whitening procedure is not followed as directed, teeth whitening can leave you with sensitive teeth temporarily. There can be mild discomfort when teeth are exposed to hot and cold foods, and it usually disappears after a couple of days.

2. Gum irritation
When the whitening solution is exposed to the gums during the treatment, it can cause irritation. The degree of gum irritation depends on the amount of peroxide bleach component used in the product and the duration of the treatment. The area of the gum feels sore and becomes a little discolored.

3. Issues with whiteness
The results of whitening may vary considerably from person to person. Also, if you have teeth restorations such as bonding, dental crowns, or veneers, the color of the repairs will remain unchanged while the surrounding teeth are whitened.

Occasional whitening does not pose any serious complications. However, over-whitening can cause problems leading to discoloration, permanent sensitivity, and weakened teeth. To cover the damage and protect the surface of the teeth, dental crowns or porcelain veneers may be needed.

Live with a smile that makes you happy, and choose the treatment that meets your budget and needs. You can also consult your dentist, who can check if your teeth are ideal for whitening procedures, and then you can decide which teeth whitening option is the best for you.