Endobleaching

In contrary to the classic teeth-whitening methods where the outer surface of the teeth is whitened, endobleaching whitens the tooth from the inside out, thus the discoloration is internal, aiming in improving the color of each individual tooth that looks darker. This discoloration results from the chemicals of the materials that were used at the root canal treatment, as well as the derivatives of the metabolism of hemospherin that inserts the dentin tubules and cause a permanent stain on the dentin. This discoloration can also be detected in the posterior teeth.

Endobleaching is an easy and inexpensive treatment, that doesn’t need any extra drilling, and therefore no anesthesia, making it completely painless. It changes only the shade of the tooth and doesn’t affect its strength, position or shape. In many occasions endobleaching precedes the placement of porcelain veneers and all-ceramic crowns in discolored teeth, allowing the light to insert through the ceramic material, giving a brighter result.

Before the treatment, we check the quality of the root canal treatment of the discolored tooth with an x-ray in order to prevent any leakage of the bleaching agent and any side effects on the root. In cases of trauma, root canal treatment proceeds endobleaching. First the old filling is removed. Then, a material that protects the root of the tooth is placed and then the bleaching agent is inserted before we temporarily fill the tooth. The bleaching agent acts gradually from the inside of the tooth and it’s being renewed at the next appointment, 3-5 days later. Endobleaching requires 3 to 4 visits to be completed, depending on the severity the discoloration. The dentist selects the right bleaching agent which is appropriate for the case.

Contraindications of endobleaching s incomplete root canal treatment, many large fillings on the same tooth and patient age under 18.  In the first case of incomplete root canal treatment, the treatment is repeated under in order to safely complete the endobleaching treatment, otherwise, it may result into chemical burns from the bleaching agent or internal resorption in case of leakage of the bleaching agent.

The duration of the result depends on the severity of the discoloration, lasting from 2 to 5 years. In case of recurrence, the treatment can be repeated. Usually, the repetition of endobleaching needs less appointments that the first time.