A Conservative Solution for Discolored Endodontically Treated Teeth
Achieving an esthetically pleasing smile heavily relies on the color of the teeth, which significantly impacts a patient’s appearance and mental well-being.1,2 Patient expectations often extend beyond simply addressing the shade of a tooth in need of prosthodontic restoration.3 Bleaching has emerged as a viable alternative to crowning for anterior teeth that have undergone endodontic treatment.4
Restorative procedures involved in placing full-coverage restorations can negatively impact oral health due to the necessary removal of tooth structure. Although crowns are often the most appropriate treatment choice, the placement of a full-coverage restoration for a discolored tooth in an attempt to provide a predictable and permanent solution may not always result in a favorable long-term outcome.5
Tooth discoloration is either intrinsic or extrinsic. While extrinsic discoloration can be caused by chlorhexidine mouthrinses, stannous fluoride exposure, and iron supplements, intrinsic causes are pulp hemorrhage, pulp deterioration, microorganisms and their byproducts, tetracycline, pulp necrosis, intracanal medications, some endodontic filling materials, and metallic restorations.1
* References and figures can be found in the original article via the link above.
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