The teeth whitening cost in Australia ranges from $20 to over $1,000, depending on whether you choose an at-home kit or a professional in-chair treatment. At-home kits are budget-friendly but slower and less potent, while in-chair treatments at a dental clinic offer instant, longer-lasting results under professional supervision.
This guide compares the cost, effectiveness, and safety of popular whitening options in Australia, helping you decide which method suits your goals and budget. Whether you’re after a quick smile boost or a deep whitening transformation, understanding your choices is the first step.
Quick Comparison: At-Home vs In-Chair Whitening Costs
| Whitening Option | Average Cost (AUD) | Whitening Strength | Treatment Time |
| Over-the-counter kits | $20 – $80 | Mild | 1–2 weeks |
| Dentist-prescribed take-home | $250 – $400 | Moderate to Strong | 1–2 weeks |
| In-chair professional whitening | $600 – $1,000+ | High | Single session |
How Much Does In-Chair Teeth Whitening Cost in Australia?
Professional in-chair teeth whitening at a dental clinic costs between $600 and $1,000+, depending on the product used, the clinic’s location, and the number of sessions required.
What You’re Paying For:
- High-concentration bleaching agents
- Customised treatment plans
- Instant results (up to 8 shades whiter)
- Gum protection and enamel-safe techniques
- Supervision by a qualified dental professional
Brands Commonly Used in Clinics:
- Philips Zoom!
- Pola Office
- Opalescence Boost
In-Chair Whitening at DunstAN Dental:
At Dunstan Dental, our in-chair whitening offers long-lasting results in just one appointment using dental-grade hydrogen peroxide gels tailored to your enamel’s sensitivity and shade goals.
What About Take-Home Whitening Kits from Your Dentist?
A dentist-prescribed take-home whitening kit generally costs $250 to $400, providing a more effective and safer alternative to store-bought products.
What’s Included:
- Custom-fit whitening trays
- High-strength carbamide peroxide gel (10% to 22%)
- Instructions and support from your dentist
- Results in 1–2 weeks
Advantages Over DIY Kits:
- Even gel distribution for consistent whitening
- Less risk of gum irritation
- Monitored treatment progress
- Can be reused with additional gel refills
How Much Does an Over-the-Counter Whitening Kit Cost?
At-home teeth whitening kits purchased online or from pharmacies cost as little as $20 to $80, but results and safety can vary.
Types of Kits Available:
- Whitening strips
- Whitening pens
- LED kits with mouth trays
- Toothpastes with whitening agents
Risks and Limitations:
- Lower peroxide concentration (typically <6%)
- Inconsistent results
- Potential gum and enamel irritation
- No professional oversight
If you’re looking for mild improvement and have a limited budget, OTC kits can be a starting point. However, they’re not ideal for deep stains or long-term results.
What Affects Teeth Whitening Prices in Australia?
Several factors influence the teeth whitening cost in Australia, regardless of the method chosen.
Key Cost Variables:
- Type of whitening treatment: In-chair is more expensive due to its intensity and equipment.
- Dentist’s experience and location: Clinics in capital cities or with advanced tech may charge more.
- Initial consultation or check-up fees
- Severity of tooth discolouration
- Brand of whitening product used
- Additional treatments: Scale and clean, fluoride application, or custom trays.
Professional Teeth Bleaching vs At-Home Whitening: Which Is Better?
Choosing between in-chair and at-home whitening comes down to your goals, budget, and time constraints.
When to Choose In-Chair Whitening:
- You want immediate results (e.g., before a wedding or event)
- You have deep or intrinsic stains
- You want professionally monitored treatment
- You’ve had little success with OTC products
When to Choose At-Home Kits:
- You prefer gradual whitening over time
- You have mild discolouration
- You want a budget-friendly option
- You’re willing to follow instructions over 1–2 weeks
How Long Do Whitening Results Last?
Whitening results can last from 6 months to 2 years, depending on your oral hygiene habits and lifestyle.
Tips to Maintain Whitened Teeth:
- Avoid or limit staining foods and drinks (coffee, tea, red wine)
- Brush twice daily and floss regularly
- Schedule routine professional cleans
- Use touch-up whitening trays if provided by your dentist
- Quit smoking or tobacco use
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Yes, when performed under the supervision of a dental professional, teeth whitening is safe and effective. Side effects like sensitivity or gum irritation are usually mild and temporary.
Avoid overusing OTC kits or using unregulated whitening products from unknown online sellers, as these can cause lasting enamel damage or gum burns.
FAQ
How much does professional teeth whitening cost in Australia?
Professional in-chair teeth whitening ranges from $600 to $1,000+, depending on the clinic, brand, and number of sessions.
Is in-chair whitening better than at-home kits?
Yes, in-chair whitening delivers faster, stronger, and longer-lasting results under professional care. At-home kits are more affordable but less potent.
How long do teeth stay white after whitening?
Results can last 6 months to 2 years. Lifestyle and maintenance play a key role in preserving your whitened smile.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have sensitive teeth?
Yes, your dentist can customise the whitening formula and use desensitisers to reduce discomfort during and after treatment.
What’s the cheapest way to whiten teeth?
The most affordable method is an over-the-counter whitening kit ($20–$80), though results may be limited. A take-home kit from your dentist offers a better balance of cost and effectiveness
