When Is Internal Bleaching Appropriate?

Root canals were once a dreaded procedure, but advanced techniques and better pain control have made the procedure remarkably common. In many instances, a root canal is the best way to keep your tooth. 

However, one drawback to having a root canal is that your tooth may darken or yellow following the procedure. Dr. Robert Scott Nance and his talented staff can help. Internal bleaching is a technique that works, even when conventional whitening methods don’t. 

Why your tooth darkens

When you have a root canal, Dr. Nance must create an opening in your tooth so that he can remove the infected pulp. That leaves your tooth vulnerable to contaminants like blood, bateria, or saliva. 

Those contaminants begin breaking down inside your tooth, and that’s what causes the darker coloration you can see in the mirror. The best way to correct the discoloration is with internal bleaching. 

Because the discoloration is happening inside your tooth, external bleaching won’t fix the issue. Internal bleaching is a minor surgery that allows Dr. Nance access to the inside of your tooth so that he can lighten it. 

The difference between internal and external bleaching

The products that you commonly see advertised for teeth whitening aren’t the same as internal bleaching. Even professional teeth whitening is a different process than internal bleaching. 

Internal bleaching is only for teeth that have changed color because of a root canal, which is sometimes called a devitalized tooth. 

External bleaching works on the outside surface of your teeth, and can be done at home or in a dentist’s office. 

Bleaching the inside of your tooth

Before you have internal bleaching, you need a consultation. You meet with Dr. Nance so that he can determine the reason your tooth is discolored. 

If his assessment shows that your tooth is healthy, he may recommend internal bleaching to correct the discoloration. The first step is to record the color of your tooth so that he can use that as a benchmark to record progress. 

During the procedure, Dr. Nance isolates your discolored tooth and places a rubber dam in your mouth to prevent any further contamination. Then, he administers anesthetic so that you remain comfortable during the procedure. 

Once you’re comfortable, Dr. Nance creates an opening in your tooth so that he can remove the decayed material that is causing the discoloration. Then, he applies a bleaching agent, which remains in your tooth for two to three days. 

During a follow-up appointment, Dr. Nance removes the bleaching agent, assesses your progress, and decides if you need an additional bleaching treatment.

Minimal risk

Any surgical procedure carries some risk. Internal bleaching is very safe, but you should be aware that some patients do experience slight discomfort or pain caused by the bleaching agent. We’ll give you thorough instructions on what to do and how to contact us if that happens. 

Regain confidence in your smile

A root canal is never an elective procedure. If you have it done, it’s because your tooth is damaged or decayed and in danger of being lost. No one who is getting a root canal is thinking about possible discoloration later, even though it’s a possibility. 

Dr. Robert Scott Nance and our team want you to enjoy outstanding oral health and to feel confident in your appearance. Knowing that your smile is as beautiful helps you feel great about how you look. If you have discoloration, we can help. 

Schedule an appointment today. Call our Statesville or Hickory, North Carolina location and find out how we can help.