What Is Internal Teeth Bleaching?

March 24, 2024

People associate a bright, white smile with good dental health and attractiveness. However, certain factors can cause teeth to become discolored, including teeth-staining foods and drinks. But what happens when a tooth becomes stained from the inside out?

Internal tooth discoloration can occur for various reasons, including trauma to the tooth, internal bleeding, tooth decay, or the use of certain medications, such as tetracycline [1]. These factors can cause the tooth’s inner tissues to darken or become discolored over time.

In such cases, internal teeth bleaching can effectively brighten the tooth and restore its appearance. What is internal teeth bleaching, and how is it different than regular teeth whitening?

Understanding Internal Teeth Bleaching

Internal teeth bleaching is a safe and effective dental procedure designed to lighten the color of discolored teeth from the inside [2].

Unlike traditional teeth whitening methods that target external stains, internal bleaching addresses discoloration that occurs within the tooth’s structure. Dentists typically use internal bleaching on teeth that have undergone root canal therapy, which can darken due to the trauma the tooth experienced prior to treatment.

Candidates for internal teeth bleaching are those who have already had their teeth restored and are in good oral health but are concerned about the remaining dark color of their treated teeth.

What to Expect During the Internal Bleaching Process

The process of internal teeth bleaching involves several steps. Your dentist will create a tiny hole in the back of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. Then, the dentist places a bleaching agent inside the tooth.

Your dentist will leave the bleaching solution inside the tooth during your appointment, or it may be left for a few days, depending on your unique case [3]. The bleaching agents work to lighten the tooth from the inside.

If the process will take several days, your dentist will use a temporary filling material to seal the access hole and protect the tooth until your next appointment. After your tooth has been whitened to match your other teeth, your dentist removes the bleach and cleans and seals the inside of your tooth.

When Would You Need Internal Teeth Bleaching?

Internal teeth bleaching is typically recommended in cases where a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment remains discolored or darkened. However, not every patient who has undergone root canal therapy will require internal teeth bleaching.

In some cases, root canal therapy alone is enough to lighten a darkened tooth and restore the appearance of the smile. Internal bleaching is a viable option for patients who need extra help getting their tooth or teeth back to their usual color.

Ask Your Dentist About Internal Teeth Bleaching

You don’t have to live with a darkened tooth due to trauma or a tooth that did not lighten significantly after root canal therapy. If your tooth color is not improving after a root canal, ask your dentist if internal teeth bleaching could help restore your smile!