It is still possible to carry out teeth whitening treatment for intrinsic teeth stains. The treatment process will be slightly more complicated than whitening for extrinsic teeth staining. For extrinsic stains which are stains on the outer enamel of the teeth can usually be removed with a scale and polish. Whereas intrinsic stains discolorations and stains affect the teeth from the inside out. Therefore, whitening for intrinsic stains is more expensive.

What causes intrinsic teeth discoloration and staining?

Intrinsic staining is staining of the dentin, or the inner layer of teeth. It can be caused by an internal problem or from certain medications. For example the use of tetracycline, too much exposure to fluoride or trauma in a permanent tooth.

How much does teeth whitening for intrinsic stains cost?

1. For intrinsic stains that are mild with no damage and just slight discoloration and staining then patients can try cold-light whitening and bleaching. In some cases the results are very good and in some cases results are not so good. Therefore, results will depend on individual cases.

2. If bleaching is used then the price can range from over a 1,000 RMB to 3,000 RMB. The price is based on the whitening for the whole mouth. The treatment can take between 30 minutes to 1 hour. Results can last from 1 to 2 years and is the most cost effective treatment.

3. If there is already damage to the teeth and there is already enamel loss then the only options left are veneers or dental crowns. With veneers a thin layer of material will be fitted to the surface of the tooth to cover the natural tooth. Whereas a dental crown will cover the entire tooth. Both options provide good results, but will require enamel to be removed from the tooth.  

Costs for veneers will depend on the veneer material, composite veneers cost approximately 1,000 RMB whereas porcelain veneers are more expensive costing 3,000 RMB. Dental crown costs will also depend on the materials chosen, all porcelain crownS can cost 4,000 RMB.