A dark spot on a tooth often causes concern. While it might suggest a cavity, dental discoloration can arise from many sources, and not all dark spots indicate decay.
What Causes Dark Spots on Teeth?
Dark spots on teeth can stem from various origins, with dental caries, commonly known as cavities, being a prominent cause. Cavities form when bacteria produce acids that erode enamel, leading to demineralization. This can appear as a brown or black spot on the tooth surface.
Extrinsic stains develop on the outer tooth surface. These stains result from consuming dark-colored foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and berries. Tobacco use also contributes to extrinsic staining, often causing yellowish-brown to black discoloration. Certain chromogenic bacteria can also produce dark stains.
Intrinsic stains originate within the tooth structure. These are more challenging to remove and can result from excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development, known as fluorosis. Certain medications, particularly tetracycline antibiotics, can lead to deep brown or gray intrinsic stains. Trauma to a tooth may cause internal bleeding or changes that lead to dark discoloration.
Old dental fillings can also cause dark spots. Amalgam (silver) fillings may tarnish over time or cause a dark shadow to show through the tooth structure. Developmental anomalies, such as enamel hypoplasia or celiac disease, can also manifest as discolored areas on teeth.
Distinguishing Cavities from Other Dark Spots
Distinguishing between a cavity and a stain can be challenging without professional dental examination, as both can appear as dark spots. Cavities often present with specific characteristics that differentiate them from superficial stains. Early cavities might appear as a faint, chalky white area due to initial mineral loss, progressing to light brown, then darker brown or black as decay advances.
A cavity may feel rough to the tongue or show a visible pit or hole. Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, or pain when biting down, can indicate a cavity that has progressed deeper into the tooth. Cavities commonly form in the grooves of chewing surfaces, near the gum line, or between teeth, areas where plaque tends to accumulate.
In contrast, stains typically present as smooth discolorations on the tooth surface. They do not usually cause pain or sensitivity unless an underlying issue is present. Extrinsic stains often appear on flatter surfaces or along the gum line and may sometimes be removed with professional dental cleaning. The color of stains can vary, from yellow and brown to black, depending on the source.
Only a dental professional can diagnose the cause of a dark spot. Dentists utilize a combination of diagnostic tools and methods for evaluation. These include a visual examination, where the dentist inspects the tooth for changes in color, texture, and the presence of any holes.
A dental explorer, a small metal instrument, may be used to gently check for soft or sticky areas on the tooth surface that could indicate decay. Dental X-rays are also a standard diagnostic tool, capable of revealing decay between teeth or under existing fillings, areas not visible during a visual inspection. Transillumination, which involves shining a bright light through the tooth, can help detect early decay or cracks that appear as dark shadows due to changes in light scattering.
What to Do About a Dark Spot
Upon noticing a dark spot on a tooth, scheduling an appointment with a dentist is the most appropriate step. Prompt professional evaluation is important. Early diagnosis of a cavity allows for less invasive treatment and can prevent decay from progressing, potentially saving the tooth. For stains, a dental visit can identify any underlying issue or address cosmetic concerns.
During the dental visit, the dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination, which may include visual inspection, probing, and X-rays, to determine the spot’s cause. Based on their findings, the dentist will discuss the diagnosis and recommend suitable treatment options. If the dark spot is identified as a cavity, a dental filling is a common treatment to remove the decayed portion and restore the tooth’s structure. For more extensive decay, a crown or root canal therapy might be necessary.
If the dark spot is determined to be a stain, professional cleaning can often remove extrinsic discoloration. Teeth whitening procedures may also be offered for more stubborn stains or for overall brightening. In cases of intrinsic staining, options like veneers or dental bonding might be considered to improve the tooth’s appearance. Maintaining good oral hygiene prevents cavities and new stains. This includes brushing teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and attending regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Limiting sugary foods and drinks and stain-causing beverages can also help preserve tooth health and appearance.