When it comes to achieving a bright, white smile, most people think of over-the-counter whitening strips or professional teeth whitening. However, these methods might not work for every type of tooth discoloration.
Internal tooth whitening, sometimes called internal bleaching, is a specialized treatment designed to brighten teeth from the inside out. Let’s explore what internal tooth whitening is, why it’s needed, and how it can restore your smile after certain types of dental injury.
WHAT TYPES OF DISCOLORATION CAN'T BE FIXED WITH TEETH WHITENING?
Not all tooth discoloration is the same. Some stains are surface-level, caused by foods, drinks, or smoking. These can often be treated with regular whitening products.
However, discoloration from trauma or root canal treatments happens from within the tooth. When a tooth is damaged, blood or other materials can seep into the tooth’s structure, causing it to darken. In the case of root canal therapy, the tooth no longer has normal blood flow, and the pulp (the innermost core of the tooth) dies, which can make the tooth look dark or gray.
These types of deep stains cannot be reversed with typical teeth whitening treatments. But they are exactly what internal tooth whitening is designed to address.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS OF INTERNAL TOOTH WHITENING?
If your dentist is recommending internal bleaching, your tooth may have already been through a lot. As much work as you may have already done to save your injured tooth, you may feel disappointed and frustrated that it no longer matches the rest of your smile.
At Anderson Family Dental, we believe that everyone deserves a smile that helps you feel confident. We also believe in offering the most conservative approach to supporting your oral health long-term, which is why we proudly provide options like internal bleaching.
Here’s what to expect.
Preparation. The process begins with a thorough dental examination to ensure that internal whitening is the right option for you. Drs. Bryant and Kathleen Anderson will assess the tooth’s condition and discuss the procedure so you know what kind of results you can reasonably expect.
Accessing the Tooth's Interior. We will carefully open the tooth from the back surface (the same place as your root canal treatment was performed) to access the inner chamber, where the discoloration resides. This step is crucial to ensure that the whitening agent can reach the areas that need treatment.
Applying the Whitening Agent. A special whitening agent is placed inside the tooth, frequently using a small cotton pellet. This whitening agent is designed to break down the deep stains and discoloration that occur after a dental injury or root canal treatment.
Sealing the Tooth. Once the whitening agent is applied, we will temporarily seal the tooth to keep the treatment in place. This allows the whitening process to work effectively from within.
Follow-Up Visits. After giving the treatment time to work, we will assess your progress and repeat the process if necessary. The number of sessions depends on the severity of the discoloration and the desired results. When your treatment is complete, we will remove the temporary seal and whitening materials and place a permanent filling on the back of the tooth, where it will not be visible.
BENEFITS OF INTERNAL TOOTH WHITENING
Aesthetic Improvements: Internal whitening can significantly improve the appearance of your teeth, restoring a more natural and uniform color.
Targeted Treatment: This method is specifically designed to treat specific types of stubborn, deep stains that external whitening methods can’t reach.
Preservation of Tooth Structure: Unlike some cosmetic procedures, internal whitening doesn’t involve removing any of the tooth’s structure, making it a conservative yet effective treatment option.
COMMON QUESTIONS OF INTERNAL TOOTH WHITENING
How long does internal tooth whitening last?
The results of internal whitening can last for several years, especially with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. In many cases, the effect is permanent, although the tooth can still be stained from the outside.
Is internal bleaching painful?
No, internal bleaching is generally a comfortable procedure because it is performed on teeth after root canal therapy, meaning the tooth no longer has a nerve. However, we may give you some numbing to keep the gums comfortable during the procedure if necessary.
Can internal tooth whitening be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Internal whitening can be part of a comprehensive plan that may include other cosmetic or restorative procedures, depending on your needs.
What if internal whitening doesn’t work?
Internal bleaching is a conservative treatment that we frequently recommend as a first option in the hopes that we can preserve as much of your natural enamel as possible. However, if we cannot achieve the shade you’re hoping for, we have the flexibility to alter our plan and restore your smile with other treatments like porcelain veneers or a dental crown..
BRING BALANCE BACK TO YOUR SMILE WITH ANDERSON FAMILY DENTAL
Internal tooth whitening is a powerful tool for restoring the natural color of teeth that have become discolored from the inside. If you’re concerned about the look of your smile after root canal therapy, this procedure might be the solution you’ve been looking for.
As always, we welcome you to talk to us about any questions or concerns you may have. When you’re ready, schedule your consultation for internal tooth whitening in Winter Park, FL to determine the best approach for your individual needs. A brighter, more confident smile could be just a few appointments away!
Dr. Bryant Anderson, DMD
Dr. Bryant Anderson knew from a young age that he wanted to become a dentist. He studied Biology and Chemistry at Utah Valley University. He continued his education at the University of Florida College of Dentistry earning his Doctorate in Dental Medicine. As a top-ranking graduate in his dental class, Dr. Bryant Anderson was inducted into the dental honor society OKU. READ MORE