Dark Spots on Teeth: Are They Cavities?
When brushing your teeth or looking in the mirror, you may see small black spots, possibly close to the gum line or on the chewing surface. At this point, many people become concerned, thinking, “Is that a cavity or simply a food stain?” Dark spots on your teeth are not always a serious issue, but still shouldn’t be ignored.
Let’s understand why they occur and what you can do about them.
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What Causes Dark Spots on Teeth?
Black or brown spots on your teeth can develop for more reasons than one. Some of the common causes are:
Stains from foods and drinks
Did you know your tooth enamel can become stained over time? Yes, it happens almost on a daily basis. When you eat or drink something that is highly pigmented, like black coffee, red wine, berries, etc., your teeth can get discolored. This happens over months or years and can show up as dark stains on your teeth.
Tooth decay
Sometimes, a dark spot on your tooth could be the earliest sign of a cavity. You may not have any pain at first, but as your enamel breaks down further, your tooth becomes more sensitive.
If spotted early, the cavity can be treated, saving your tooth.
Smoking stains
People who smoke regularly or use tobacco products often see dark or black spots on their teeth. These stains are often hard to remove with routine brushing and need professional help.
Intrinsic discoloration
The dark stain you see on your tooth might not be on the surface, but rather due to an issue inside. Discoloration can also develop from the inside out, typically from a pulp infection, an injury to the tooth, or certain medications.
How to Remove Dark Spots on Teeth
It’s easy to reach for a home remedy when you notice dark spots on your teeth, but seeing your dentist first is the smarter move since the cause matters as much as the fix. Not all black spots are cavities, but it’s better to get them checked to rule out the risk.
If there are light spots because of foods, drinks, or smoking, your dentist may recommend teeth cleaning. It easily gets rid of the surface stains while removing plaque and tartar all along.
Dentists also recommend professional teeth whitening treatments for stained teeth. They are safer and give much longer-lasting results than most OTC products.
If the dark spot turns out to be a cavity, the right course of treatment comes down to how far the decay has progressed. A filling typically takes care of it, though more advanced cases may call for a root canal or crown.
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Summing Up
Dark or black spots on your teeth are not always harmful, but in any case, it can be helpful to get them evaluated by a professional. If you see dark spots, consult our dental experts at ACE Dental of Texas to learn how we can help treat them. Give us a call today!