Many people believe that black teeth suggest old age or bad oral hygiene. Others think that black teeth could be an early indicator of a severe medical condition. While your first impression might be correct, there is more to it than meets the eye. A black tooth may suggest an emergency situation you need to address right away. In this article, we’ll explain why your tooth has turned black, and what you can do about it. Read on to learn more about black teeth and if they’re actually a prospective emergency.
What causes black teeth?
Black teeth or rotten teeth can occur for lots of reasons. Some of the most common causes include:
– Bad oral health – Poor oral hygiene is frequently the reason for black teeth. However, black teeth can likewise be brought on by a variety of other health conditions that harm the tooth enamel and trigger staining.
– Stains – Stains on your teeth that are brought about by foods, drinks, or tobacco are potentially black. Be sure to brush your teeth completely twice a day and avoid using tobacco products.
– Tooth decay – The primary reason for black teeth is decay. Tooth decay happens when unhealthy germs in your mouth cause the enamel to break down and eventually turn black. Also, if you have a large number of wisdom teeth, they may also turn black as a sign of decay.
Black Teeth and Heart Disease
If you’re a woman over the age of 35 and you have at least one black tooth, you may want to get it checked. Black teeth could be a sign of heart disease. You should see your dentist if you have one or more black teeth and you’re over the age of 35.
The American Heart Association says that dental heart disease is on the rise. This is because of extended direct exposure to harmful substances in the mouth that can harm your heart.
While black teeth are not a definitive sign of a heart problem, they might be an indicator of future issues down the line. If you observe that you have numerous black teeth, speak to a medical professional about it. You could be at risk for other health problems that could potentially be worsened by bad oral health. Learn more about cavities here.
Here at Dentist Mercer Island we have extensive experience helping those with a Dental Emergency. Call us or send us an email right now if you need assistance. We are here to help!
How to Determine If a Black Tooth Is an Emergency
If your black tooth is triggering significant discomfort or you’re constantly concerned about it, you may wish to see a dental professional right away. It is very important to keep in mind that black teeth can be a result of a major medical condition. These conditions include (but are not limited to):
– Halitosis – Halitosis happens when the production of saliva is blocked due to medications or a medical condition.
If a blockage of your saliva is triggering black teeth, it might also suggest a serious health issue.
– Tooth Abscess – Tooth abscesses can appear in anybody, even those with healthy mouths. Nevertheless, tooth abscesses in black teeth are concerning. If you see a tooth that has an agonizing red or white area on the tooth, address it immediately.
What to Do If You Find That Your Tooth Is Indicative of an Emergency Situation
If you find out that your black tooth is in fact indicative of an emergency scenario, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Black teeth that are the result of a major medical condition must be addressed right away to avoid additional damage. Here at Dentist Mercer Island we have extensive experience helping those with a Dental Emergency. Call us or send us an email immediately for assistance.
If you find out that your tooth is black due to a health condition other than the ones noted above, you should still brush and floss your teeth frequently. Black teeth can often be prevented by simply practicing good oral hygiene.
If you don’t brush and floss your teeth routinely, bacteria in your mouth can cause decay and damage your tooth enamel. This causes the tooth to potentially turn white, gray, or black. You may also find that your teeth are jagged or buckled. This is another indication that your teeth are rotting and need attention. If you come into our office we can quickly assess the situation and give the right guidance on what to do next.
Conclusion
If you have black teeth, you may be wondering what to do about them. Black teeth are typically caused by bad oral health or tooth decay. But, they can also be a sign of a major health condition. If your black teeth are bothering you or you notice that they’re warping your bite, you need to look for immediate medical attention.
Our emergency dentists are standing by to help. Call us or send us an email today to book an appointment. We look forward to providing you with the best dental care.
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