Dental Code D9974: Internal bleaching - per tooth

Maintaining a bright, healthy smile is a priority for many individuals. One dental procedure that can help achieve this goal is internal bleaching, which is designated by the code D9974. 

Dental Code D9974 refers to the internal bleaching of a single tooth. This procedure is typically performed on a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment, as the tooth's internal structure can become discolored over time. By bleaching the inside of the tooth, the dentist can help restore the natural whiteness and brightness of the affected tooth.
The internal bleaching process involves several carefully executed steps to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient. 

On average, patients pay $200 for this D9974 service at the dentist's office, with as little as $150 charged for this in less expensive cities and as much as $300 in more expensive cities.

Low cost of living	Medium cost of living	High cost of living
Memphis (Tennessee), Cincinnati (Ohio)	Miami (Florida), Denver (Colorado), Austin (Texas)	(New York (New York), San Francisco (California)
$150	$200	$300

However, the price for the service D9974 depends not only on the region where you live, but also varies from dentist to dentist. Therefore, it makes sense to compare prices before choosing a dentist. The best way to do this price comparison is at Dr. BestPrice and save a lot of money. 

The first step in the internal bleaching process is a thorough evaluation by the dentist. They will assess the condition of the tooth, including the extent of discoloration and the overall health of the tooth. This assessment will help the dentist determine the most appropriate treatment plan and ensure that the patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure. The dentist will take into account factors such as the cause of the discoloration, the patient's dental history, and any underlying dental issues that may need to be addressed. They will also discuss the patient's expectations and desired outcome to ensure that the treatment plan aligns with the patient's goals. Additionally, the dentist may take X-rays or other diagnostic images to get a better understanding of the tooth's structure and the extent of the discoloration.

Once the evaluation is complete, the dentist will prepare the tooth for the bleaching process. This may involve removing any existing fillings or restorations to ensure that the bleaching agent can penetrate the tooth effectively. The dentist will carefully examine the tooth and surrounding structures to ensure that there are no areas of decay or other issues that could complicate the bleaching process. They may also need to clean the tooth surface to remove any plaque or debris that could interfere with the bleaching agent's effectiveness.

The next step is to isolate the tooth being treated. This is typically done by placing a dental dam around the tooth, which helps to prevent the bleaching agent from coming into contact with the surrounding gum tissue or other teeth. The dental dam is a thin, rubber-like barrier that the dentist carefully positions around the tooth, sealing it off from the rest of the mouth. This not only protects the surrounding tissues but also helps to keep the bleaching agent concentrated on the target tooth. Once the tooth is isolated, the dentist will create an access point, usually by drilling a small hole in the back of the tooth. This hole provides a direct pathway for the bleaching agent to be applied to the inner tooth structure. The size and location of the access point will depend on the specific tooth and the extent of the discoloration.

With the access point established, the dentist will apply the bleaching agent directly to the inside of the tooth. This agent is typically a hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide solution, which helps to break down the discolored pigments within the tooth structure. The concentration and formulation of the bleaching agent will be carefully selected by the dentist based on the patient's specific needs and the severity of the discoloration. The dentist will ensure that the bleaching agent is evenly distributed throughout the inner tooth structure, covering all areas of discoloration. They may also use specialized applicators or syringes to ensure precise and controlled application of the agent.

The bleaching agent is left in place for a specific duration, typically ranging from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the severity of the discoloration and the dentist's assessment of the patient's needs. During this time, the dentist will monitor the tooth closely, checking for any signs of sensitivity or other adverse reactions. The duration of the bleaching process may need to be adjusted based on the patient's response and the desired level of whitening.

During the bleaching process, the dentist will closely monitor the tooth to ensure that the bleaching agent is working effectively and that the patient is not experiencing any discomfort or sensitivity. They will carefully observe the tooth's color and appearance, noting any changes or improvements. The dentist may also check the patient's comfort level and ask about any sensations or concerns they may have.

If necessary, the dentist may adjust the concentration or duration of the bleaching agent to achieve the desired results. For example, if the initial application is not producing the desired level of whitening, the dentist may increase the concentration of the bleaching agent or extend the duration of the treatment. Conversely, if the patient is experiencing significant sensitivity or discomfort, the dentist may reduce the concentration or shorten the treatment time.

Throughout the monitoring and adjustment process, the dentist will work closely with the patient to ensure that the treatment is progressing as planned and that the patient's needs and concerns are being addressed. They may also provide guidance on post-treatment care and any follow-up steps that may be necessary.

Once the bleaching process is complete, the dentist will remove the bleaching agent and any temporary fillings or materials used during the procedure. They will then evaluate the tooth to ensure that the desired level of whitening has been achieved. This may involve taking additional photographs or using specialized tools to assess the tooth's color and appearance.

If the tooth requires additional restoration, such as a permanent filling or crown, the dentist will proceed with those steps to complete the treatment and ensure the long-term health and appearance of the tooth. The dentist may also provide recommendations for maintaining the results of the internal bleaching, such as adjusting the patient's oral hygiene routine or avoiding certain foods or beverages that could potentially stain the tooth.

In some cases, the dentist may recommend a follow-up appointment to monitor the tooth's condition and make any necessary adjustments to the restoration or additional bleaching treatments. This ensures that the patient's desired results are maintained and that the tooth remains healthy and functional over time.

Dental Code D9974 refers to the internal bleaching of a single tooth, a procedure that is typically performed on a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment and has become discolored over time. The process involves several carefully executed steps, including evaluation, preparation, isolation, application of the bleaching agent, monitoring, and restoration.

By undergoing this procedure, patients can achieve a brighter, more uniform smile, which can significantly boost their confidence and self-esteem. It's important to work closely with a qualified dental professional to ensure the best possible outcome and to address any concerns or questions throughout the treatment process.

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