Internal Tooth Whitening
Internal tooth whitening or bleaching can be used for teeth that have discoloured due to previous root canal treatment or trauma. Teeth can become discoloured due to a wide array of reasons. These can be largely classified into intrinsic (internal) and extrinsic (external) discolouration. Endodontists are experts in managing intrinsic discolourations of teeth, where the tooth has become discoloured internally due to history of trauma or previous treatment.
It is not uncommon for traumatised teeth to become discoloured. This discolouration may occur immediately or months after the injury. The blood supply to the tooth may become damaged due to the injury, allowing blood products to stain the dentine of the affected tooth. While endodontic treatment can address the damaged pulp inside the traumatised tooth, internal bleaching is often required to restore the normal appearance of the tooth.
Advancements in endodontic materials and techniques has largely eliminated the risk of intrinsic staining after root canal treatments. However, older root canal-treated teeth may become discoloured. In the majority of cases, an endodontist may assist you in restoring the natural appearance of the affected tooth without the need for expensive restorations such as veneers and crowns. In some cases, internal bleaching may be required prior to the placement of a new permanent crown/veneer to ensure that the new restoration blends in with the rest of your teeth.
Internal bleaching requires placement of a bleaching agent inside the cavity normally prepared during root canal treatment. This agent is left inside the tooth for a couple of days and may need to be repeated before the desired outcome is achieved. As fillings and crowns are not affected by the bleaching agent, teeth with extensive restorations may need to have the restoration replaced once the bleaching process is completed.
Please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team if you are unsure about your options or if you think internal bleaching may help you restore the natural appearance of your tooth.