I have a front tooth that is turning dark and requires a root canal. Will the tooth be just as dark after the root canal? Will teeth bleaching before and after help? Or will I need a veneer? I’m sure my dental insurance will not cover all of this, but I am concerned about my smile. Thank you. Nicholas from Springfield, MO

Nicholas,

Thank you for your question.

Generally, root canal treatment darkens a tooth.

Why Does Root Canal Treatment Darken a Tooth?

Root canal treatment darkens a tooth if a dentist leaves root canal filling material in the pulp chamber, which is visible above the gumline.

How to Prevent Tooth Darkening After Root Canal Treatment

After treating the tooth, a dentist can prevent discoloration with these steps:

• Remove root canal filler material from the pulp chamber
• Bleach the tooth internally by sealing bleaching solution inside
• Insert a fiberglass post into the root
• Fill the tooth with composite

Your dentist should complete internal bleaching as soon as possible after the endodontist completes the root canal. Also, they should wait to place the post until the endodontist is confident that the root canal is successful. After removing the filler material, your dentist will wait a few weeks to check your tooth color. If it is stable, the results can last for several years.

What If Your Dentist Cannot Correct Your Tooth Color?

If your dentist is not familiar with the techniques required to lighten your tooth color after root canal treatment, we recommend scheduling a consultation with an advanced cosmetic dentist. It may be helpful to consult with two cosmetic dentists before root canal treatment to ensure you have found a dentist to treat the tooth as soon as possible after the endodontist confirms that your root canal was successful.

Otherwise, a skilled cosmetic dentist can correct your tooth color with a porcelain veneer. A dental crown is an aggressive treatment that can weaken your tooth and increase the risk of breaking. And unless the tooth is dead, you will not need to replace it with a dental implant. Talk with the dentist about making treatment affordable with payment plans or financing.

 

Baton Rouge, Louisiana, dentist Dr. Ryan Perry sponsors this post.