Internal Teeth Bleaching: Treatments & Costs

Many treatment options are available to whiten your teeth. One of the many procedures available to whiten your teeth is internal tooth bleaching. 

This treatment is recommended for people whose tooth discoloration stems from the inside of the tooth.

What is Internal Teeth Bleaching?

Sometimes, a tooth can become discolored from the inside out due to trauma or decay that reaches the tooth's nerve. Traditional whitening methods won't fix this discoloration, but that doesn't mean you're stuck with a darker tooth.

Internal tooth bleaching is a procedure that brightens teeth from within. It's a fantastic option for regaining a confident smile when standard whitening fails.

Internal vs. External Teeth Bleaching

The biggest difference between internal and external bleaching is where the bleaching product is placed.

Internal bleaching is a targeted brightening treatment for a single discolored tooth. The dentist places a special whitening agent inside the tooth for a deeper clean.

External Bleaching is the classic whitening approach. It involves whitening strips, custom trays, or in-office treatments⁠, all of which work on the outside surfaces of teeth.

How Does Internal Bleaching Work?

Internal bleaching is like giving your tooth a deep cleaning from the inside out. Your dentist will use a special bleach designed to work safely inside your tooth.

The bleach is carefully placed within the tooth's hollow chamber. How long the bleach stays in place depends on how severe the discoloration is.

Do You Need a Root Canal for Internal Bleaching?

Yes, internal bleaching is designed for teeth that have already undergone root canal treatment. The whitening material inside the tooth isn't meant for teeth with living nerves, and a root canal ensures this isn't an issue.

What Is an Internal Bleaching Procedure Like?

Here’s what you can expect during an internal teeth whitening procedure:

1. Any internal bleaching procedure will start with a consultation to evaluate your tooth’s condition. 
2. The tooth being treated is then isolated so the root canal treatment isn’t contaminated with saliva.
3. Your dentist creates a tiny opening, which helps them reach the discolored area.
4. They’ll carefully clean the area before applying the special whitening agent.
5. Depending on the technique, your dentist might use light or heat to activate the whitening agent.
6. Once your tooth reaches its desired shade, the opening is temporarily sealed.
7. Your dentist will schedule additional appointments to check on progress and replace the whitening agent if needed.

Costs of Internal Teeth Bleaching

Internal tooth bleaching typically ranges from $150 to $600 per tooth. If you'd like to brighten multiple teeth, the overall cost can increase.⁶ 

Remember that the level of discoloration and the technique your dentist uses can all affect the final price.

Is Internal Bleaching Effective?

Internal bleaching can be very effective in brightening discolored teeth, especially those that don't respond to traditional whitening. This procedure requires careful technique, so having a skilled dental professional is crucial for the best results.

It’s important to note that the cause of the discoloration, your dentist's experience, and your overall oral health all affect how well the treatment works. For severely discolored teeth, you might need a few appointments to reach your desired shade.

Risks and Considerations for Internal Bleaching

While internal bleaching can be a great solution for a discolored tooth, it's important to be aware of a few potential risks.⁵

• Color relapse ⁠— Sometimes, even after successful treatment, your tooth might gradually darken again over time.
• Root resorption — In rare cases, the bleaching process can lead to the roots of your tooth breaking down. This can weaken your tooth.
• Effects on existing restorations — Internal bleaching won't affect existing fillings, crowns, or veneers.

Does Bleach Damage Teeth?

The impact of bleach on your teeth depends on the type of whitening treatment.

• Internal Bleaching — The bleach is carefully placed inside the tooth, keeping your outer enamel safe. However, there's a small risk of the bleach affecting the tooth's root over time.
• Traditional Whitening — These treatments work on the tooth's surface, and when used too frequently or incorrectly, they can weaken enamel. This can lead to sensitivity or even permanent damage.

Your dentist is the best person to discuss the potential risks and the right whitening approach for your smile.

How Long Does Internal Bleaching Take?

The good news is the initial whitening procedure itself is quite fast⁠—usually around 30 minutes. However, for deeply discolored teeth, a single appointment might not be enough. You'll likely need follow-up visits to change the bleaching agent and achieve your desired shade.

After the whitening process, your dentist will seal the tooth with a permanent restoration. In most cases, the procedure also doesn’t require anesthesia, reducing the risk of anesthesia-related complications.

Is Internal Bleaching Permanent?

While internal bleaching can significantly brighten your smile, it's not always a forever fix. Your tooth might gradually darken over time.

Here's what influences how long the results last:

• Following your dentist's care instructions, avoiding staining foods and drinks, and keeping up with regular brushing and flossing all play a role.
• Seeing your dentist for follow-up appointments helps them monitor the tooth's color.

If you want a guaranteed long-term solution, veneers or crowns might be a better choice. These cover the discolored tooth for a permanently brighter smile.