Internal Bleaching Treatment in Manhattan – Brighten Discolored Teeth from the Inside Out

What Causes Internal Tooth Discoloration?

Tooth discoloration that affects a single tooth, especially after trauma or root canal therapy, is often internal. It results from breakdown products of blood or pulp tissue becoming trapped inside the tooth.

Common causes include:

• Dental trauma or injury
  
• Pulpal necrosis (nerve death)
  
• Internal bleeding inside the tooth
  
• Darkening following root canal therapy
  
• Certain medications used in past dental procedures
  

Internal Bleaching vs. Traditional Teeth Whitening

While both treatments aim to brighten your smile, internal bleaching and traditional (external) teeth whitening are designed for very different situations.

Internal Bleaching:

• Performed inside the tooth
  
• Treats non-vital (root canal-treated) teeth
  
• Targets internal discoloration caused by trauma, blood breakdown, or infection
  
• Only affects the individual discolored tooth
  
• Requires placement of a whitening agent inside the tooth structure
  

Traditional Teeth Whitening:

• Applied to the external surface of teeth
  
• Best for vital (live) teeth with surface stains from coffee, wine, smoking, or aging
  
• Performed with in-office bleaching gels or take-home trays
  
• Typically used to whiten multiple teeth for a brighter overall smile
  

If you have one noticeably darker tooth—especially following trauma or root canal therapy—internal bleaching is likely the more effective and targeted solution. Your general dentist may also combine internal and external methods to achieve a uniform result.

Who Is a Candidate for Internal Bleaching?

You may be a good candidate for internal bleaching if:

• You’ve had a root canal on a front tooth
  
• The tooth has darkened or become gray/yellow from the inside
  
• The tooth is otherwise healthy and stable
  
• You’re seeking a non-invasive cosmetic enhancement for a single discolored tooth
  

If the tooth has not had a root canal, internal bleaching cannot be performed until the pulp is removed, as the procedure involves placing whitening material inside the cleaned pulp chamber.

How Internal Bleaching Works

At 3D MicroEndo, we use a proven, safe method to lighten your tooth internally without harming the surrounding structure.

Step 1: Evaluation and Imaging

We assess the tooth and ensure it has been properly treated with root canal therapy and has no signs of active infection.

Step 2: Whitening Agent Placement

A small opening is made on the back of the tooth to access the internal chamber. A safe bleaching agent is placed inside and sealed temporarily.

Step 3: In-Office Monitoring and Reapplication (if needed)

After a few days, we evaluate the color improvement. The process may be repeated until the desired shade is achieved.

Step 4: Final Sealing

Once the tooth reaches the ideal shade, the opening is permanently sealed with a tooth-colored filling or restoration.

Why Choose 3D MicroEndo for Internal Bleaching?

At 3D MicroEndo, we combine cosmetic precision with endodontic expertise. Our board-certified specialists understand the internal anatomy of teeth and how to whiten them safely from the inside. With advanced imaging, biocompatible materials, and a conservative approach, we restore your tooth’s natural appearance while preserving its strength and integrity.

We serve patients across Manhattan from our conveniently located offices in the Upper East Side, Tribeca, and Gramercy Park.