A broken tooth that has turned black is a concerning discovery for anyone. This change in appearance is often a sign of underlying issues within the tooth structure. While alarming, understanding the reasons behind this discoloration can help in seeking timely and appropriate dental care.
Why a Broken Tooth Turns Black
A broken tooth can turn black due to several distinct reasons, primarily involving internal damage. One common cause is internal decay, where bacteria enter through the break, leading to deterioration of the tooth from the inside out. This process can result in a black appearance.
Another significant factor is pulp necrosis, the death of the tooth’s innermost tissue (the pulp), which contains nerves and blood vessels. Trauma or extensive decay can disrupt the blood supply, causing the pulp to die. As it breaks down, red blood cells release iron compounds that stain the tooth grey, brown, or black. This discoloration intensifies the longer the pulp remains necrotic.
External staining can also contribute to a dark appearance, though it is less common for a truly black discoloration than internal problems. A broken tooth surface is rough and can trap food particles, plaque, and pigments from dark beverages like coffee, tea, or red wine, and tobacco products. While these extrinsic stains can make the tooth appear dark, a black tooth indicates a more serious internal issue.
Understanding the Risks
A broken, black tooth is more than a cosmetic concern; it signals a deeper problem that carries several health risks. Decay or dead pulp within the tooth can create a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially leading to an infection. This infection can result in a dental abscess, a painful pocket of pus that forms at the root tip or in the surrounding gum tissue.
Internal issues can also cause pain or sensitivity. Exposed nerve endings, ongoing decay, or an active infection can lead to sharp pain or heightened sensitivity to hot and cold. Even without immediate pain, the infection remains active and can spread.
If left untreated, the infection can spread beyond the tooth to surrounding gum tissue, the jawbone, or other parts of the body. A spreading infection can lead to serious conditions like cellulitis, or, rarely, reach the brain or heart. Without intervention, the tooth continues to decay, compromising its structural integrity and potentially leading to its loss.
Your Next Steps for Treatment
Discovering a broken tooth that has turned black necessitates prompt dental attention. Seeing a dentist without delay is important for an accurate diagnosis and to prevent complications. Early intervention can preserve the tooth and prevent more extensive issues.
During the visit, a dentist will perform a thorough examination, including visual inspection and X-rays, to assess the damage and determine the cause. These diagnostic procedures help identify internal decay, a dead nerve, or an abscess. Based on the diagnosis, various treatment options are considered.
For minor chips or superficial external stains, fillings or dental bonding can restore the tooth’s appearance and structure. If pulp necrosis or a significant infection is present, root canal therapy is performed to remove the infected pulp, clean the canals, and seal them. After a root canal, a crown is recommended to protect the weakened tooth and restore its strength. If the tooth is too severely damaged, fractured, or the infection has compromised the surrounding bone, extraction may be the only viable option.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, and attending routine dental check-ups are important for preventing future issues and detecting problems early.