Internal Bleaching (Non-Vital Tooth Whitening)

What Is Internal Bleaching?

Internal bleaching is a cosmetic dental treatment used to whiten a tooth that has become discolored from the inside—usually due to trauma, infection, or past root canal therapy. Unlike external whitening (which works on surface stains), internal bleaching targets discoloration that begins within the tooth structure itself.

This technique is ideal for non-vital teeth, which no longer have live nerve tissue. These teeth often turn gray, brown, or dark yellow over time, standing out from the rest of your smile.

Internal bleaching offers a conservative solution to even out your smile without needing a crown or veneer.

Why Do Teeth Darken from the Inside?

• Trauma or injury to a tooth can cause internal bleeding or nerve death, leading to discoloration over time.

• Root canal therapy treats infection but may leave behind pigments from blood or debris that darken the tooth.

• Pulp necrosis (nerve death) can change the internal color of the tooth before treatment even begins.

Even though the tooth is healthy and infection-free, the color change can affect your appearance and confidence.

How Internal Bleaching Works

1. Evaluation – We’ll examine the tooth and confirm that it is non-vital (typically post-root canal).

2. Access and Cleaning – A small opening is made in the back of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.

3. Placement of Whitening Agent – A special internal bleaching material is placed inside the tooth.

4. Temporary Seal – The tooth is sealed with a temporary filling and left for a few days to allow whitening.

5. Repeat or Final Restoration – The process may be repeated to achieve desired whiteness. Once finished, the tooth is permanently sealed.

The results are often dramatic, restoring natural-looking color without affecting healthy surrounding teeth.

Who Is a Candidate for Internal Bleaching?

• You’ve had a root canal and your tooth has since darkened

• You have a discolored tooth from past trauma

• The tooth is structurally intact and doesn’t require a full crown

• You want a non-invasive alternative to veneers or bonding

Our team at Cornerstone Dental Arts will evaluate your specific needs and help you choose the best cosmetic option for your smile.

FAQs About Internal Bleaching

Q: Is internal bleaching painful?
A: No. The tooth being treated is non-vital (has no nerve), and the procedure is minimally invasive. Most patients experience no discomfort.

Q: How long does it take?
A: Internal bleaching typically takes one to two visits, depending on the level of discoloration and the whitening results desired.

Q: Will the tooth stay white permanently?
A: Results are long-lasting, but in some cases, touch-ups may be needed over time. Proper sealing and care help maintain the brightness.

Q: Can internal bleaching be done on live teeth?
A: No. Internal bleaching is only performed on non-vital teeth that have had root canal treatment.

Q: Is this better than getting a crown or veneer?
A: Internal bleaching is far less invasive and helps maintain your natural tooth structure. It’s an excellent option when the tooth is otherwise healthy.