If you've recently had a root canal, you may have noticed that the treated tooth can become darker over time. This is a common occurrence, and many patients who undergo a root canal often wonder if they can whiten their teeth afterward, especially if the tooth has become discolored. One popular whitening option is GLO Teeth Whitening, a professional, advanced whitening system. But is it safe and effective to whiten a tooth after a root canal?
Let’s explore this question, provide insight into GLO Teeth Whitening, and guide you through the best whitening options for a root canal-treated tooth.
A root canal is a dental procedure in which the damaged or infected nerve and pulp inside a tooth are removed. While the treatment saves the tooth from extraction, it also alters its structure and appearance. After the nerve is removed, the tooth is no longer nourished in the same way, which can impact its strength and color over time.
After a root canal, many patients notice the treated tooth darkens. This discoloration can occur for a few reasons:
For many patients, this darkening can be a cosmetic concern, prompting them to seek whitening treatments to restore the tooth's natural appearance.
Once the tooth has healed after a root canal procedure, many patients look for ways to brighten the tooth, which has become darker. Whitening treatments, such as professional options like GLO Teeth Whitening, offer a solution for patients who want to restore the tooth's aesthetic appeal. Whitening can also improve the look of a single tooth or multiple teeth, especially when other treatments like crowns or fillings are not immediately necessary.
GLO Teeth Whitening is a professional whitening treatment that combines heat, light, and whitening gel to help brighten your smile. Unlike traditional at-home whitening kits, GLO offers faster, more effective results, making it a popular choice for those seeking a professional whitening experience.
GLO uses a unique technology that involves applying a whitening gel to your teeth. The gel is then activated by a combination of heat and light, which enhances the gel’s whitening power. This system works by breaking down stains and discoloration more quickly and efficiently than regular over-the-counter whitening products.
There are several reasons why GLO Teeth Whitening is preferred over at-home whitening kits:
GLO’s effectiveness, coupled with the convenience and comfort of professional supervision, makes it a top choice for those looking for a brighter, whiter smile. It's also a safe option for patients who may have tried at-home whitening kits without achieving the desired results.
In most cases, whitening a tooth after a root canal is safe, but it's crucial to wait until the tooth fully heals before starting any whitening treatments. The healing period ensures that the tooth and surrounding gums are stable and that the whitening procedure will be as effective as possible.
The timing of whitening treatments is key for several reasons:
Whitening treatments come in two forms:
In some cases, a combination of internal and external whitening might be recommended to achieve the best results.
If the tooth is severely darkened, internal whitening (also called internal bleaching) might be necessary. This procedure involves placing a whitening gel inside the tooth and letting it sit for a period to whiten it from the inside out. This method is typically used when external whitening is ineffective.
After a root canal, it’s generally recommended to wait at least 2-4 weeks before attempting any whitening treatments. This waiting period ensures that your tooth has healed sufficiently and is stable enough for the treatment.
Before proceeding with GLO Teeth Whitening, your dentist will take several factors into account:
GLO whitening is highly effective for teeth that have adequately healed after a root canal and are free from major structural issues. If the discoloration is due to surface stains that developed after the root canal, GLO can help restore the tooth’s brightness.
If the discoloration is caused by internal stains (often due to a root canal procedure), GLO may not be able to address it. In these cases, internal whitening or other cosmetic procedures might be a better option.
External whitening is the most commonly used method for brightening teeth after a root canal. It works well for patients with surface stains on their teeth. However, if the staining is internal or deep, external whitening may not yield the desired results.
For deeply discolored teeth after a root canal, internal whitening may be necessary. This procedure involves placing a whitening gel inside the tooth to treat internal discoloration.
In some cases, when whitening isn’t effective or if the tooth is too damaged, veneers or crowns may be recommended. These options can completely restore the appearance of a root-canaled tooth.
Your dentist will evaluate the condition of the treated tooth and its level of discoloration to determine whether whitening, veneers, or crowns are the best solution for you.
Most dental insurance plans cover root canal procedures because they are necessary to save the tooth. However, coverage details and the amount reimbursed can vary based on your plan.
Whitening treatments, including GLO, are generally considered cosmetic dentistry and are not covered by dental insurance. Dental insurance typically covers necessary oral health procedures, such as a root canal, but not cosmetic treatments, such as whitening.
Whitening a tooth after a root canal is often possible, and with the right approach, you can restore both the function and aesthetics of your smile. At Smile Arizona Dentistry, we offer professional whitening treatments, such as GLO Teeth Whitening, to help you achieve a brighter, more confident smile.
If you’re considering whitening after a root canal, it’s essential to consult with our team to determine the safest and most effective option for you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how we can help you brighten your smile!
Will whitening make the treated tooth look different from the surrounding teeth?
If the treated tooth has severe discoloration, a veneer or crown may be necessary to match the color of surrounding teeth.
Should whitening be done before getting a crown placed on a root-canaled tooth?
Yes, it’s best to whiten the tooth before placing the crown so that it can be matched to the newly whitened color.
Is GLO whitening safe for people with sensitive teeth?
Yes, GLO is designed to minimize sensitivity, but it’s always a good idea to consult your dentist if you have concerns.
Can internal tooth bleaching be combined with GLO whitening for a better result?
Yes, in some cases, internal bleaching can be combined with GLO whitening to achieve more uniform results.
What happens if only one tooth needs whitening after a root canal?
If only one tooth is discolored, your dentist can focus on whitening that tooth using internal or external techniques, depending on the severity of the staining.
