
Delta Dental insurance coverage for teeth whitening is a topic of interest for many individuals. In some Delta Dental plans, teeth whitening is covered as an optional benefit, but it's not included in the standard coverage.
To determine if your plan covers teeth whitening, you'll need to check your policy documents or contact Delta Dental directly. It's essential to understand the specific terms and conditions of your coverage.
Delta Dental's coverage for teeth whitening varies by plan, so it's crucial to review your policy carefully. Some plans may cover a certain number of whitening treatments per year, while others may have a waiting period before coverage kicks in.
See what others are reading: Delta Dental Insurance for Seniors
Delta Dental Insurance
Delta Dental Insurance has a mixed record when it comes to covering teeth whitening procedures. In fact, on average, Delta Dental insurance covers 0% of the cost for teeth whitening, which means you'll be responsible for paying the entire treatment cost on your own.
However, there is a notable exception - the Delta Dental - Optimum Plan. This plan actually covers professional teeth whitening and bleaching, offering a safe and effective way to achieve a brighter, more confident smile.
But don't expect this to be the norm, as most Delta Dental plans do not cover teeth whitening procedures. In fact, most of the time, searching for benefits for procedure code D9972 will result in a message stating that the procedure is not a benefit of most Delta Dental plans.
If you're looking for insurance companies that do cover some percentage of teeth whitening procedures, here's a brief rundown of some options:
Cost and Payment
The cost of teeth whitening with Delta Dental is a significant factor to consider. The average cost is $594.24 with zero coverage, which is the dentist's private UCR fees.
This cost can vary greatly depending on the location and the dentist's office. The 10th percentile cost is $262, while the 90th percentile cost is $1180.
To give you a better idea, here's a table breaking down the estimated costs:
Ultimately, the cost will be determined by the cost of living in your neighborhood.
Cost of

The cost of teeth whitening can vary significantly depending on your location and the level of coverage you have. The average cost of teeth whitening is $594.24 with Delta Dental, but this doesn't include any coverage.
If you're looking for a more accurate estimate, consider the national average and range of fees based on the ADA survey of fees. Here's a breakdown of the costs:
Keep in mind that these numbers are based on dentist offices that responded to the survey, so it's not a comprehensive list. Additionally, costs can be higher in super luxurious dental offices that cater to celebrities.
To give you a better idea, consider the cost of living in your neighborhood. If you live in a high-cost area, you can expect to pay more for teeth whitening.
Premium Plan
The Premium Plan is a great option for those who want comprehensive coverage. It costs $2,500 annually, which covers a wide range of services including whitening, veneers, implants, and nightguards.
This plan offers 100% preventive coverage, which means you'll have no out-of-pocket expenses for routine cleanings and exams. You'll get three cleanings per year, which is essential for maintaining good oral health.
You'll also have high coverage for fillings and major services, giving you peace of mind in case you need any extensive work done. The Premium Plan gives you access to Delta Dental's extensive PPO Plus Premier network, which means you'll have a wide selection of dentists to choose from.
Consider reading: Does Insurance Cover Emergency Contraception
Types of Plans
Delta Dental offers various plans to suit different needs and budgets. The Basic Plan is their most affordable option, costing $0.39 per person, per month.
This plan focuses on wellness and covers emergency services, cleanings, fillings, posterior composites, teeth whitening, and non-surgical extractions. Preventive care, including non-surgical extractions and crowns, is also covered under this plan.
Broaden your view: The Minimum Amount Your Insurance Must Cover per Accident Is
Basic Plan
The Basic Plan is a great option for those who want a more affordable PPO network plan that focuses on wellness. This plan costs just $39 per person, per month.

Preventive care is a key feature of this plan, covering services like cleanings, fillings, posterior composites, and teeth whitening. You'll also have coverage for non-surgical extractions.
The plan year maximum is $1,000, and you'll pay 50% of the cost for covered services. This means you'll have a good balance of affordability and coverage.
One of the benefits of this plan is that it covers preventive care, including non-surgical extractions.
You might enjoy: Does Insurance Cover Std Testing at Urgent Care
Employer-Sponsored Plans
Employer-Sponsored Plans can offer extended coverage that private insurance plans don't, which can include teeth whitening.
You can speak with the plan provider or HR department to understand whether your employee-sponsored dental insurance plan covers this option.
Some employer-sponsored plans may have a more comprehensive coverage of teeth whitening, but it's essential to review the plan details for specific information on the benefit conditions.
Out-of-pocket estimates for teeth whitening procedures under employer-sponsored plans assume in-network providers and a satisfied deductible.
You might like: Va Delta Dental Insurance
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can greatly enhance the appearance of your smile. The process typically takes about 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the desired results and the method used.
To ensure a safe and effective procedure, a dentist will first clean your teeth to remove any plaque or debris, and then apply a protective gel or rubber shield to your gums to prevent irritation. The active ingredients of the whitening or bleaching agent are then applied to your teeth, often in combination with a special light or laser to enhance the whitening effect.
Professional teeth whitening offers several benefits, including improved aesthetics, fast and effective results, and customized treatment tailored to your specific needs. With a professional whitening treatment, you can enjoy a safer and more comfortable experience compared to DIY methods.
Here are some key facts to consider:
- Professional teeth whitening is typically performed in a dental office under the supervision of a dentist.
- The procedure usually takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the desired results and method used.
- A dentist will clean your teeth and apply a protective gel or rubber shield to your gums before the whitening treatment.
- Professional whitening treatments are safer and more effective than DIY methods.
Understanding Professional
Professional teeth whitening is a process that's typically performed in a dental office under the supervision of a dentist. This ensures a safe and effective treatment.
The process begins with a thorough examination of the patient's teeth and gums to ensure they're healthy enough for the procedure. This examination helps the dentist determine the most appropriate treatment method.
Additional reading: Dentist Who Accept Delta Dental Insurance
The dentist will clean the teeth to remove any plaque or debris, which ensures the whitening agents can penetrate the teeth effectively. A protective gel or rubber shield is applied to the gums to protect them from irritation during the procedure.
The dentist applies the active ingredients of whitening or a bleaching agent to the teeth, which typically takes about 30 to 90 minutes. In the case of a dental office bleaching or whitening, a high-concentration peroxide gel is used.
After the procedure, the dentist may provide the patient with a take-home kit to maintain the results. This kit usually contains custom-fit trays and a lower-concentration whitening gel.
Professional treatments offer quicker and more noticeable results compared to over-the-counter products, thanks to the controlled environment and professional-grade agents. This ensures a more uniform and effective whitening process.
Dentists can tailor the treatment to the patient's specific needs, considering factors like tooth sensitivity and desired shade. This personalized approach ensures a safer and more comfortable experience.
Here are the steps involved in professional teeth whitening:
- Preparation: The dentist cleans the teeth and applies a protective gel or rubber shield to the gums.
- Application of Whitening Agent: The dentist applies the active ingredients of whitening or a bleaching agent to the teeth.
- Post-Treatment Care: The dentist may provide the patient with a take-home kit to maintain the results.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste is a great place to start when considering professional teeth whitening. You can use professional-grade whitening toothpaste as a first-line solution.
Many commercial toothpaste brands offer a whitening option, but professional-grade toothpaste can work more effectively.
Using whitening toothpaste consistently over time can lead to consistent results.
Sources
- https://www.jacksonavedental.com/post/does-delta-dental-cover-teeth-whitening
- https://www.deltadentalct.com/our-plans/individual-and-family-plans/whitening
- https://www.deltadentalwa.com/blog/entry/2024/08/Teeth-whitening-and-bleaching
- https://www.dentalinsurance.com/resources/oral-health/insurance-teeth-whitening/
- https://www.benzinga.com/money/does-dental-insurance-cover-teeth-whitening
Featured Images: pexels.com