My Tooth Is Turning Dark (Black): What Should I Do?

A dark tooth may cause concern…and rightly so! Teeth should naturally be ivory or white shade, and when it turns darker in color, you know something is wrong. At Living Well Dental Group, we don’t just offer great dentistry services in Naperville, but we also aim to ensure that people can access important information about their dental health right here on our website.

Let’s take a look at what causes a black stained tooth, and things you can do to keep your teeth looking pearly white.

Why Have My Teeth Turned Black?

Searching “my tooth is black” online will present you with lots of explanations, but there are really only two reasons why you may have a black front tooth. These include health problems or external damage. We separate these into intrinsic and extrinsic causes.

Extrinsic Causes

This refers to external factors that influence the health of your teeth. It may simply be a matter of tooth staining from something in your diet or the build-up of tartar. Taking some medications can also lead to staining. Extrinsic causes are things that can impact your tooth without having an immediate impact on its health.

Intrinsic Causes

These are the internal factors relating directly to the health of your tooth. An intrinsic cause of a black tooth is typically infection or decay, including cavities.

There are sometimes even combinations of the two. For instance, you might experience a dark tooth after trauma indicating that the tooth is dying internally. If this is the case, a root canal or extraction might be necessary.

Symptoms Of Black Teeth That You Should Look Out For

Beyond the obvious symptom of having one tooth darker than others, black teeth can pose several other problems and symptoms. If you are experiencing darker-than-normal staining on our tooth that is proving difficult to remove, be sure to watch for:

Holes in Your Teeth

Holes in your teeth are an indication that the tooth darker than others is likely decaying. It is important to see a dentist as soon as you notice problems like this.

Pain When Chewing

Pain when chewing also likely indicates that when your tooth looks black, it is probably infected.

Swelling Around Gums

Swelling around the gyms is another indication that the tooth is infected or decaying.

Tartar Between Teeth

Tartar is a solid deposit that traps stains on your teeth. It’s a hard substance that forms over time, trapping in plaque, bacteria, and stains. You will usually notice this at the bottom of the tooth where it meets the gum, or in between the teeth. If you have tartar, this could be the reason for the darkness on your teeth.

As soon as you notice signs of tooth staining, and particularly if you notice pain or any of the other symptoms above, it’s important to see your dentist to make sure it is not an intrinsic cause that risks the health and viability of your tooth.

Foods to Avoid If Your Tooth Is Turning Dark

As we’ve discussed, one dark tooth could indicate a serious intrinsic issue that your dentist needs to explore. However, it can also indicate that your diet is having an effect on the appearance of your teeth. Along with practicing good dental hygiene, including brushing twice per day and flossing frequently, there are plenty of foods and beverages you can avoid that aid in the staining of teeth.

These include:

Cola: The Dark and Sugary Culprit

Cola drinks are notorious for their detrimental effects on dental health. Not only are they high in sugar, which can lead to tooth decay, but their dark color can also cause unsightly staining. The combination of sugar and acids in colas creates an acidic environment in your mouth, promoting enamel erosion and leaving your teeth susceptible to stains.

Fruit Juice: A Hidden Source of Staining

While fruit juice may seem like a healthy choice, especially when it comes to getting essential vitamins and nutrients, it’s essential to be cautious of its impact on your teeth. Fruit juices are often packed with natural sugars and can contain dark pigments that contribute to tooth staining.

Red Wine: A Double Threat to Dental Beauty

Red wine lovers may find it disheartening, but this beloved beverage can wreak havoc on the whiteness of your teeth. Not only does red wine contain acidic components that erode enamel, but its rich red pigmentation also clings to your teeth, causing noticeable stains.

Tea and Coffee: Tannins Take a Toll

Many people rely on tea and coffee to kickstart their day, but these beloved beverages contain tannins, compounds known for their staining properties. Over time, regular consumption of tea and coffee can lead to discoloration of your teeth.

Best Treatment Options for Black Teeth

Black stained teeth can be treated in several ways.

Fluoridated Toothpaste

One of the initial and easiest steps in combating black teeth is incorporating a high-quality fluoridated toothpaste into your daily oral hygiene routine. Fluoride is known for its enamel-strengthening properties, and toothpaste containing fluoride can help reduce stains caused by external factors, such as consumption of certain foods, beverages, or tobacco products. Regular brushing, twice a day, will help remove surface stains and promote overall oral health.

Flossing

Flossing is a critical aspect of dental hygiene that often gets overlooked. Black stains on teeth can sometimes be caused by the build-up of tartar and plaque in between teeth, making it crucial to floss daily. Proper flossing removes food particles, bacteria, and debris from hard-to-reach areas, preventing tartar accumulation and, consequently, tooth staining. When combined with regular brushing, flossing helps maintain the overall cleanliness of your teeth and gums.

Tooth Extraction

In some cases, blackened teeth may be a sign of serious decay that has progressed to a point where the tooth cannot be saved. When other treatment options are not feasible, tooth extraction becomes necessary. Tooth extraction involves the removal of the affected tooth to prevent the spread of infection and potential damage to surrounding teeth. After the extraction, replacement options like dental implants, bridges, or dentures can be considered to restore the appearance and functionality of the missing tooth.

Dental Crowns

When a blackened tooth still has a healthy root and can be saved, dental crowns provide an excellent restorative solution. Dental crowns are custom-made caps that cover the entire visible portion of the tooth, effectively restoring its natural color and shape. The procedure typically involves the removal of decayed material, followed by shaping the tooth to accommodate the crown. Modern advancements, such as CEREC technology, allow for same-day crown placement, eliminating the need for multiple dental visits.

Stain Removal and Teeth Whitening

Stain removal and teeth whitening procedures can be effective in removing stains caused by foods, drinks, or cigarette smoking.

Black Tooth Treatment and Advice from Chicago’s Dental Experts

The Living Well Dental Group team is always happy to offer advice on restoring the natural color of your teeth or saving teeth affected by infection or decay. We offer one of the fastest ways to brighten your teeth with a Sensational Smile 20-minute in-office whitening system. In just 20 minutes you can brighten your stained or dark teeth!

To learn more about the treatment we offer, schedule an appointment and call the team today on 630-5050-1516!