Teeth cleaning and whitening cost

Cleaning removes plaque and calculus, while whitening changes tooth colour; the cost depends on the procedure and your dental findings.

A quote may separate examination, scaling and polishing, stain removal, whitening materials, light or tray systems, and any treatment needed before whitening.

Scaling removes hardened deposits from tooth surfaces and below the gumline, while polishing removes some surface stain. Whitening uses peroxide-based material to alter internal tooth colour.

The final plan depends on calculus, gum inflammation, fillings, crowns, veneers, enamel defects, and the shade of natural teeth.

Ask for an itemised plan that states whether it includes an examination, radiographs if needed, periodontal cleaning, polishing, whitening trays or in-office application, and review.

Treat active decay or gum inflammation before elective whitening, and keep restorations in mind because whitening changes natural tooth colour but not the colour of fillings or crowns.

Arrange an examination before whitening if you have tooth pain, bleeding gums, cavities, cracks, ulcers, or marked sensitivity. A dental assessment is also needed when stains do not improve after cleaning.

The clinician can identify whether the colour comes from surface deposits, enamel, dentine, decay, or an old restoration and select the appropriate treatment.

Ask which stains cleaning can remove and which colour changes need whitening, and whether your fillings, crowns, or veneers will match afterward.

Ask what causes sensitivity in your case, what product and concentration will be used, and what follow-up is included if the shade is uneven.