Tooth Whitening Tooth whitening or bleaching is a process whereby we lighten teeth by applying various types of bleaching materials. The results are safe, long-lasting and in many cases, quite dramatic. We offer two types of bleaching: “Take home” uses clear bleaching trays that look like thin mouthguards. Bleaching gel is placed in them and they are worn 1-2 hours per day for 10-14 days. “Zoom!” is an in-office procedure that takes just over an hour using a special light-activated bleaching gel and our specialized bleaching light. Typically you will want to touch up the bleaching once every 6-12 months, depending on your consumption of tea, coffee, red wine, cola drinks and smoking tobacco, which cause teeth to darken. “Take home” bleaching costs $360, while “Zoom!” bleaching costs approximately $650. Touch-up kits are available for $25. Bleaching is considered a cosmetic procedure, so insurance will generally not cover the cost.