Medically reviewed by Dr. Henry Hackney, DMD on 02 Mar 2024
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In today’s fast-growing world, first impressions have become more important. A vital part of your first look is your smile. However, in western countries, this procedure lacks insurance coverage. This is why affordable teeth whitening abroad is gaining popularity.
If you are to get this procedure in the USA, Canada, the UK, or Australia, you might have to pay a fortune.
Conversely, teeth whitening treatment abroad in dental tourism destinations like Mexico, Thailand, Costa Rica, or El Salvador willcost you 50-80% less.
The procedure is referred to as tooth whitening if teeth are whitened to a natural shade. The procedure is referred to as bleaching if teeth are lightened beyond a naturally occurring tooth shade.
~Dr. Henry Hackney, DMD
Who Is a Candidate for Teeth Whitening Treatment?
Teeth whitening or dental bleaching becomes necessary when the patient’s teeth are stained, especially those at the front.
Types of Teeth Stains
Tooth staining can be due to various reasons. On the whole, stains can be divided into the following broad categories:
Extrinsic Stains
In this example, only the outer layer of the tooth, referred to as enamel, is stained.
This is why surface bleaching is usually enough to get rid of these stains.
Some of the reasons for extrinsic stains are:
- Tobacco: Chronic smokers tend to have conspicuous black blotches on their teeth. These blotches are the result of the constituents of tobacco. [1]
- Coffee, Tea, or Wine: Tea and coffee contain tannins that stain the outer enamel surface afterexcessive consumption. [2] Even red wine can stain your teeth in a pinkish hue.
- Dental Plaque: Dental plaque is a collection of bacteria that reside on the external surface of the tooth. That weakens, stain, and eventually break down teeth. Plaque deposits usually have a dark yellow to brownish color.
- Chromogenic Bacteria: This bacteria produces colored substances that stain natural teeth. If they are allowed to grow and multiply, tooth staining will occur. [3]
- Topical Medication: Certain medications consumed orally, for example, a liquid medicine for iron deficiency [4] or anemia, may also cause staining. Even some medicated mouthwashes like Chlorhexidine [5] are staining agents when used for long periods.
- Metallic compounds: Industrial exposure to iron, manganese, or silver can cause black staining on teeth. Likewise, mercury and lead will leave a blue-green stain. [6]
Intrinsic Stains
These stains are present on the inside of the tooth. Surface whitening won’t get rid of intrinsic stains.
Some of the causes of intrinsic staining are:
Caries
- Caries is the decay/permanent of teeth, with the root cause being bacterial in origin.
- A brownish stain is visible, and it extends inside the tooth. [7]
- They can be cured either by filling or by root canal treatment.
- The stain might still be visible, for which teeth bleaching can be done.
According to a 2018 research study published in the Brazilian Dental Science journal, patients reported an improvement in the overall perception of their dental aesthetics following a tooth whitening treatment. [8]
Trauma
- Trauma can have different kinds of effects on teeth.
- Sometimes a tooth might fracture on exertion of a sharp force.
- Other times, a tooth may become necrotic, despite no visible fracture
- This condition will lead to dead tissue inside the tooth, which will cause internal blackish discoloration. [9]
- Staining due to trauma can be very aesthetically displeasing, especially in the front teeth. Suppose a tooth experiences trauma during its developmental stages before erupting. In that case, it appears as a white spot known as enamel hypoplasia. [10]
Nutritional Deficiency
Low calcium content in your body can also sometimes cause staining. [11]
Reduced calcium in your body decreases the amount of remineralization which can occur, increasing the porosity of enamel, and thus increasing the likelihood of staining.
~Dr. Henry Hackney, DMD
Fluorosis
Excessive consumption of fluoride can lead to white spots on teeth.
This condition is more prevalent in places where the water is fluoride-rich. [12]
Drugs
If a mother consumes tetracycline during pregnancy, especially when the child’s teeth are forming, there might be yellowish staining. [13]
These are known as tetracycline stains. They are intrinsic and difficult to remove via external whitening.
Dental Material
- Silver amalgam is one of the early materials used for dental fillings.
- Even nowadays, some people prefer it due to its low cost.
- This material gives a bluish-black stain to the tooth on which it is placed. [14]
Genetic or Hereditary Defects
- Some individuals have genetic problems like Amelogenesis Imperfecta, Dentinogenesis Imperfecta, or Dentin Dysplasia.
- They may have faulty teeth formation.
- Their teeth might be yellowish or have white spots. [15]
Age Staining
- It is a combination of extrinsic and intrinsic stains.
- The underlying reason is the change that the tooth undergoes with advancing age.
- For example, while dentin becomes thicker, enamel decreases.
- This results in an increased yellow tinge to the tooth because of the yellowish color of the dentin. [16]
Who Is Prone to Tooth Staining?
Tooth staining is different for everyone. Two people eating and drinking the same foods might have varying degrees of staining.
This depends on the natural make-up of your teeth.
It also depends on the hygiene that you maintain and certain other factors listed below:
Poor Oral Hygiene
This is the most common reason for tooth staining. Poor oral health will mean plaque and food deposits.
This will increase bacterial activity and further result in staining. [17]
Pits, Fissures, and Defects
Chipped or broken teeth or pits and fissures on their surfaces are all inclined to make your teeth more prone to staining. [18]
This is because the food particles and bacteria can easily lodge in these defects and cause more damage.
Salivary Dysfunction
Saliva is a natural cleanser in your mouth. If there is a decreased flow of saliva due to some reason, the bacterial activity is bound to increase.
This will again lead to discoloration and staining. [19]
Types and Processes of Tooth Whitening
Bleaching usually works on yellow teeth more than it does on grayish discolorations. [20]
The agent generally used to bleach teeth is hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. [21] It can be done in two ways:
In-Office Whitening
- As the name suggests, it is performed in a dental office by the dentist.
- The bleaching gel has a15-43% peroxide concentration. [22]
- In an office, methods like special lights and heat can be used to intensify and accelerate the process.
- It usually takes 1-2 hrs at the most.
- Newer methods, likelaser teeth whitening, have also become quite popular.
- These have proven to shorten the treatment time.
At-Home Care
Home bleaching kits are also available. These, however, have a specific way of application.
It’d be best to talk to your dentist about this before using it.
The concentration of peroxide used in these agents is3- 20%. [23]
At-Home Teeth Bleaching Methods
1. Tooth whitening gels and strips
- They are applied directly to the tooth surface and require re-applications to get the final result.
2. Tray-based whitening systems
- A tray fitting on top of your teeth is fabricated.
- You can get these made from your dentist or buy them separately.
- The peroxide-based gel is placed over the teeth for a few hours.
3. Tooth whitening toothpaste
- These kinds of toothpaste contain abrasives that help remove stains from the surface.
- The lightness achieved by them is not much, but for mild staining, the results are satisfactory.
Laser teeth whitening
Non-Vital Dental Bleaching
This dental whitening option is for the tooth which has undergone a root canal treatment (RCT). [24]
The difference, in this case, is that the bleaching agent is placed inside the tooth canals.
It remains there for a specified period. This lightens the tooth color internally.
According to a 2018 research study, non-vital bleaching has also shown a positive impact on psychosocial factors and the aesthetic perception of patients. [25]
Zoom Whitening Procedure
- Our network dental clinic in Bangkok, Thailand provides the zoom teeth whitening method.
- They use state-of-the-art laser technology for tooth whitening.
- This enhances the results of the whitening procedure results, and that too in just one sitting!
What Is the Cost of Teeth Whitening Abroad?
Teeth whitening prices in countries such as the USA, the UK, and Australia, are through the roof. A feasible way out is getting the procedure done abroad.
The cost of teeth whitening in Mexico is$150compared to$1,500in the US and$1,380in Canada.
Also, teeth whitening costs$270in Thailand, and$140in India. Compared to a whopping$1,185in Australia and$1,000in NZ.
The following table shows teeth whitening prices worldwide, including the top dental tourism destinations.
Teeth Whitening Prices Abroad (USD)
| Country | In-Office | At-Home Kit |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $1,500 | $400 |
| Canada | $1,380 | $300 |
| United Kingdom | $1,300 | $520 |
| Australia | $1,185 | $450 |
| New Zealand | $1,000 | $400 |
| Thailand | $270 | $180 |
| Costa Rica | $250 | $200 |
| Mexico | $150 | $170 |
| India | $140 | $110 |
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Where Can I Get Affordable Teeth Whitening Abroad?
You can get premium-quality teeth whitening overseas at an affordable price.
But if you are confused about where to go, have a look at our hand-picked locations.
Mexico has been attracting many foreign visitors for a long time.
The country offers suitable weather for a visit all year round.
Its unique culture and history are worth exploring.
The cultural festivals, nature reserves, and beaches add to a relaxing vacation in Mexico.
If you're considering dental work in Mexico, explore our blog "
In Mexico, teeth whitening costs$150.
Being a health tourism hotspot,Costa Ricais a popular destination for dental tourists.
Its natural beauty, blissful beaches, and rainforests are some fantastic tourist spots.
Also, you can enjoy activities such as canyoning, river rafting, zip-lining, and tubing in Costa Rica.
Moreover, you can also relax at the pristine beach resorts or spas.
Seeking affordable dental work in Costa Rica? Explore "Top 10 Dental Clinics and Dentists in Costa Rica" for insights.
The cost of teeth whitening in Costa Rica is$250.
Colombiais a beautiful destination for dental tourism.
The country offers a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes to its tourists.
Some of the activities worth a shot in Colombia are rafting, kayaking, surfing, diving, and dancing.
From adventures to relaxing spots, the country is a great place for a holiday.
Looking to cut down on dental expenses with affordable dental tourism in Colombia? Explore "Top 10 Dental Clinics and Dentists in Colombia!"
Laser teeth whitening in Colombia will cost you$295.
Thailandis known for its beaches, historical sites, and hospitality.
You can enjoy the local cuisines and stay in comfortable hotels during your visit.
Thailand’s capital city, Bangkok, is also listed as one of the top 10 most attractive cities.
The country continues to attract tourists from around the globe.
Explore the best dental tourism in Thailand through our "Top 10 Dental Clinics and Dentists in Thailand" blog post.
For ZOOM! Teeth whitening in Bangkok, price is$365.
Tourism is booming inTurkey. The country offers magnificent sites to its visitors.
Many Europeans flock to Turkey to get their dental treatments done.
The ancient cities, and breezy beaches, are a must-visit for anyone.
Enjoy a relaxing vacation in Turkey and return home with beautiful memories.
Interested in dental work in Turkey? Our listing on the top 10 dental clinics and dentists in Turkey can help!
Laser teeth whitening in Turkey costs$250.
Indiais blessed with a rich historical and cultural heritage.
Being a diverse nation, you can explore the various cultures and feast on different cuisines.
You can also shop at the local bazaars and malls. India offers anything and everything to its tourists.
Also, the hospitable environment is a cherry on the top.
Curious about potential cost savings with dental work in India?
Explore our blog post, "Top 10 Dental Clinics and Dentists in India."
The price of teeth whitening in India is$140.
Get affordable teeth whitening abroad and enjoy a relaxing vacation as a bonus!
Affordable Teeth Whitening Abroad: Reviews & Testimonials
Teeth Whitening in Mexico: Patient Testimonial
Bangkok Smile Dental Clinic - I recommend teeth whitening 100%, and I will definitely be coming back!
Patt Rattanapimol
Australia
LS Dental Clinic Costa Rica - The team is super professional. Everyone had a wonderful experience!
Kay Bee
Philadelphia
Sonrisa Perfecta Dental, Colombia - I could get a teeth cleaning and whitening for a far much reasonable price.
Jessica Cristancho
US
Conclusion
Teeth whitening is a popular treatment that you can avail of at lower prices in other countries. Let’s lighten your stained teeth and brighten your smile.
So, contact us now for affordable teeth whitening abroad. We work with top dentists and clinics in Thailand, Mexico, Costa Rica, and India.
Dental Bleaching FAQs
Dental filling costs without insurance vary depending on how many fillings your need, as well as the type of material used to fill the tooth.
At-home bleaching kits are usually less concentrated in terms of peroxide content.
They typically have about 3– 20% peroxide concentrationinstead of in-office gels having15-43%concentration.
Peroxide can also damage and discolor your teeth on prolonged use. [26]
So, the lesser strength of at-home self-use kits will ensure you don’t hurt your teeth in the process.
The dental office is a controlled environment, so stronger concentrations can also be applied.
No!Many beauty salons offer tooth whitening services, but it isillegalto do so. Only a certified dentist is legally allowed to bleach your teeth. [27]
Tooth whitening isnot a permanent treatment. If you control your consumption of staining foods like tea, coffee, or wine, it can last a few years.
However, if you are a person with a high tea or coffee intake, you should expect the treatment to last a few months.
Ageneral dentistis well qualified to perform any whitening procedure.
If you are looking for an expert in dental and facial aesthetics,a cosmetic dentistmight be your go-to specialist.
Usually, elective procedures like bleaching areNOT recommendedduring pregnancy.
Most dentists will advise you to wait until after delivery for this dental treatment due to safety reasons. [28]
No. Crowns, veneers or composite restorations will not lighten after bleaching. [29]
If you want the same shade as the bleached teeth, the restoration will have to be replaced.
The main disadvantage of this method is that prolonged use might cause some sensitivity for a few days. This can be very troubling for some patients.
That’s why it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions meticulously. Another minus point is that this treatment is temporary.
This depends on the type of stain you have. Yellow stains tend to take up bleaching very well.
On the other hand, if you have grayish-black discolorations, this treatment might not be the best option. [29]
The treated teeth have shown a2-3 shade changein color after bleaching.
In case you have stains which can’t be treated with bleaching alone, there are several other options under cosmetic dentistry that you can look into.
For example,veneersare a developing trend among people who want a Hollywood smile.
In very severe cases, sometimes evencrownsare placed on the front teeth, to make the smile beautiful.
A dreamy smile is waiting to dazzle on your face!
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