A discoloured tooth can affect your confidence, even if the tooth is otherwise healthy. When a single tooth becomes darker after trauma or root canal treatment, it’s often due to internal staining. At The Endodontic Office, we offer internal tooth whitening—a safe and effective way to restore the natural colour of a non-vital (non-living) tooth without affecting surrounding teeth.

This procedure is specifically designed for teeth that have had root canal treatment or lost vitality due to trauma.

Why Do Non-Vital Teeth Discolour?

Non-vital tooth discolouration can happen for several reasons:

• Trauma causing internal bleeding or pulp damage
• Root canal treatment that leaves behind staining material
• Age-related changes in dentin
• Medications used in prior dental treatments

Unlike external stains that affect the enamel, these stains originate from within the tooth, making regular whitening treatments ineffective.

Internal Whitening: The Procedure

Also known as the “walking bleach technique,” internal whitening targets stains from the inside out. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Examination and X-Ray

We assess the tooth to ensure it is properly root canal-treated and free from infection. X-rays are taken to check for any hidden complications.

Step 2: Access and Preparation

Under local anaesthesia (if needed), we create a small opening at the back of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.

Step 3: Placement of Whitening Agent

A special whitening material (usually carbamide or hydrogen peroxide-based) is placed inside the tooth. The opening is sealed with a temporary filling.

Step 4: Repeat Sessions

The whitening agent is left inside for 3–7 days and may require 1–3 sessions, depending on the severity of discolouration.

Step 5: Final Restoration

Once the desired shade is achieved, the whitening agent is removed, and the tooth is permanently sealed with a composite filling.

Why Choose The Endodontic Office?

• Microscopically Guided Procedures for accuracy and safety
• Customised Whitening Plans based on tooth condition and history
• Gentle Technique to preserve tooth structure and minimise sensitivity
• Aesthetic Expertise to ensure the whitened tooth blends naturally

We don’t just whiten—we restore your smile’s harmony.

Benefits of Internal Tooth Whitening

1. Targeted Aesthetic Solution: Treats discolouration in a single, non-vital tooth without affecting neighbouring teeth.
2. Minimally Invasive: No need for crowns or veneers unless the tooth is structurally compromised.
3. Fast and Effective Results: Noticeable improvement in just a few days.
4. Preserves Natural Tooth Structure: A conservative alternative to more extensive restorative procedures.

Aftercare Instructions

• Avoid dark-colored foods and drinks (coffee, red wine, berries) during treatment.
• Do not bite on hard objects with the treated tooth until the final restoration is in place.
• Maintain good oral hygiene to preserve your whitening results
• Report any sensitivity or discomfort to our office immediately

FAQs

Q: Will internal whitening make my teeth as white as the others?
A: In most cases, yes. Our goal is to match the colour of your natural teeth as closely as possible. Severe or longstanding stains may require additional sessions or complementary cosmetic treatments.

Q: Is internal whitening painful?
A: Not at all. The procedure is minimally invasive and typically pain-free. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity, which resolves quickly.

Q: How long do the results last?
A: Results are long-lasting, especially when combined with good oral hygiene. However, in some cases, the tooth may darken again over time and need touch-up treatments.

Q: Can all discoloured teeth be treated with internal whitening?
A: Only non-vital (root canal-treated or dead) teeth are candidates for internal whitening. Teeth with extensive fillings, cracks, or external stains may need alternative treatments such as veneers or crowns.

When to Book a Consultation

If you notice a single darkened tooth in your smile line—especially after injury or root canal therapy—it may be a candidate for internal whitening. The sooner you act, the better the results.

Regain Your Confident Smile

At The Endodontic Office, we understand the importance of every tooth in your smile. Let us help you restore natural beauty with expert care. Book your internal whitening consultation today—we’ll bring your tooth back to life aesthetically.