What to Expect During An Internal Bleaching Treatment

Root canal procedures are incredibly common, with 25 million root canals performed each year. One potential side effect of this tooth-saving procedure is a yellowing or darkening of the treated tooth. 

But don’t worry. At the office of Robert Scott Nance, DDS, MS, PA, we can help if you have discoloration as a result of a root canal. Dr. Nance uses an internal bleaching procedure that’s designed to brighten your tooth and erase discoloration.

Learn about this amazing internal bleaching treatment and how it can change your smile.

What is internal bleaching?

Despite every effort, blood, bacteria, and saliva have the potential to enter a tooth during a root canal procedure.

As the bacteria and other contaminants break down within the tooth, they also darken. External bleaching won’t fix the problem because the discoloration is happening from the inside out.

So the answer is Internal bleaching, a minor surgical procedure that targets discoloration where it’s occurring in your tooth. 

Traditional teeth whitening versus internal bleaching

Traditional teeth whitening bleaches your teeth from the outside, usually using a hydrogen peroxide solution. 

With traditional whitening, you wear trays at home or have the procedure done in-office. It’s effective for teeth that are discolored from food or the effects of aging.

Internal bleaching is different because it whitens from the inside out. It’s reserved for devitalized teeth, or teeth that have had a root canal.

Does my tooth need internal bleaching?

Before signing up for the procedure, you sit down with Dr. Nance for a consultation to discuss your concerns and treatment goals. Dr. Nance then determines if you’re a good candidate for internal bleaching.

If you move forward with the procedure, Dr. Nance first records the shade of your tooth. This allows him to track your progress. 

What’s the process for internal bleaching? 

During the procedure, Dr. Nance isolates and cleans the tooth. He then places a rubber dam on the tooth to prevent further contamination during the procedure and discoloration in the future. An anesthetic cream is applied to your gums to ease discomfort.

Dr. Nance then removes any decayed material that’s causing discoloration. He then applies a bleaching agent to the space within your tooth. This bleaching agent stays in your tooth for two to three days. 

When the desired shade is reached, Dr. Nance removes the bleaching agent and seals the tooth. Some people may need an additional bleaching procedure if there’s notable discoloration.

This procedure is quite safe, but you may experience a little discomfort and tooth sensitivity following the procedure. If you’re bothered by side effects, call our office right away.

Internal bleaching restores your smile

A root canal saves a damaged or decayed tooth so it’s still functional. Discoloration is an unwanted potential side effect. 

Our team at Robert Scott Nance, DDS, MS, PA, wants you to have the best smile possible. Don’t just tolerate a discolored tooth – visit our office to fix it.

Request an appointment by calling our office in Statesville or Hickory, North Carolina. We are here to help you with all your endodontic needs.