What does “Internal bleaching” mean?
Internal whitening is a method of applying a whitening agent to the inside of teeth that have darkened, mainly after receiving root canal treatment. The access location is different from regular whitening where the medication is applied outside the natural teeth.
When only one tooth becomes dark
Check for changes in the tooth's internal tissue, past trauma, or discoloration related to root canal treatment. We do not immediately whiten the interior just because it is dark. We first look at cavities, cracks, problems around the tooth root, and the existing state of root canal treatment.
Unlike external whitening of several teeth together, an internal approach is considered for a specific tooth once the cause is identified. Whether the tooth is vital or has already had root canal treatment also matters when choosing the method.
Check before adding medication
Check the root canal filling and seal and plan to prevent the whitening agent from leaking into unwanted areas. The method of accessing the inside of the tooth, applying the medication, and checking the progress varies depending on the condition of the tooth and the material used. Walking bleach is one way to perform internal whitening.
There are differences in the degree to which the color brightens and then darkens again. Indications and follow-up observations are explained, taking into account the possibility of complications such as external resorption of the tooth neck area.
Differences from restoration replacement
Internal whitening is a treatment that addresses discoloration of remaining natural teeth. If your teeth are severely damaged or the color of the existing restoration itself is a problem, whitening alone will not solve the problem, so we create a restoration plan together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do internal whitening if only one tooth is dark?
Discoloration of a single tooth can have many causes. We determine whether internal whitening is possible after checking for root canal treatment, internal condition of the tooth, and existing restorations.
If I do internal whitening, do I need to have root canal treatment again?
Internal whitening and endodontic retreatment are treatments with different purposes. If there are any concerns about the condition of the existing root canal filling or infection, these should be evaluated first.
Can the color darken again after internal whitening?
The color may change again or differences from surrounding teeth may remain. Whether to repeat whitening or restoration is determined by checking the condition of the teeth and response to previous treatment.
3 things to check before choosing internal whitening
Please review the questions to ask before deciding on treatment and the treatment standards of TU Dental Clinic.
- A choice suited to your condition
Does the clinic first check the cause of discoloration and the status of existing root canal treatment?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic explains the treatment needed based on the current state of tooth decay and the gums. The treatment extent is determined from the diagnosis.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together - Preservation of natural teeth
Does the clinic compare possible preservation options before covering a tooth to improve its color?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic monitors the progress of tooth decay and determines the treatment range by considering the tooth tissue that can be preserved.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together - Care after treatment
Can you explain how to check the color change and condition of teeth after whitening?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic provides guidance on hygiene and regular check-ups after gum treatment. Ask about care suited to your teeth and gum condition.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together
Further reading and references
Further reading
References
- Internal tooth whitening · StatPearlsncbi.nlm.nih.gov (opens in a new tab)
- Intracoronal tooth bleaching · Australian Dental Journalonlinelibrary.wiley.com (opens in a new tab)
- ADA · Whiteningada.org (opens in a new tab)
- Intracoronal tooth bleaching — A review and treatment guidelinespubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (opens in a new tab)
- American Association of Endodontists · What is a root canal?aae.org (opens in a new tab)

