Tooth discoloration shows up in multiple ways, including black spots on teeth. While people who neglect regular oral health care are more prone to spots on their teeth, those who brush and floss regularly may also get spots at some point. However, the reasons differ in both cases.
Is A Black Spot On A Tooth Always A Cavity?
A black spot appears on the tooth for specific reasons, including a cavity as the most common reason. However, a cavity is not the sole cause of a black dot on a tooth. To know if a cavity is the cause of the blackish tint on your teeth, look for other tell-tale signs of a cavity, which are:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, and sour foods
- Persistent toothache
- A hole or pit in the tooth
- Pain while eating
- Wobbly tooth in severe cases
Why You May Have Black Spot On Your Teeth?
Apart from a cavity, a black spot on a tooth may indicate other oral health issues, such as:
- Tartar build-up
- Tooth injury
- Nicotine stains from consuming tobacco, cigarettes, etc.
- Staining due to foods such as tea, coffee, soda, or wine
- Fluorosis due to excessive fluoride intake
- Medical conditions such as celiac disease, calcium deficiency, metabolic diseases, liver diseases, etc.
- Taking antibiotics like tetracycline
Can Black Spots On the Teeth Go Away?
Treating cavities is the first step to removing black spots on the tooth. Dentists recommend to fill cavities when decay is containable, which means it is still at the surface. However, a root canal is required when the decay gets deeper and affects the pulp and nerves. A root canal helps clean the rot out and calm the inflammation and pain due to the infection. For non-cavity-related black dots on the tooth, you may choose the following dental stain removal methods.
1. Peroxide-based whitening strips or bleaching kits
You may buy either an OTC whitening strip or go for an in-office whitening treatment. The latter gives quicker and better results with assured safety under a professional’s supervision.
2. Tooth whitening pastes, powder, or liquids
They contain fluoride and tooth-whitening chemicals, such as peroxides and baking soda, that remove food debris, stains, and plaque.
3. Dental prophylaxis
This is an in-office procedure wherein a dentist uses a prophylactic paste to remove stains, spots, plaque, and tartar.
4. Veneers
If the treatments above do not help, some dentists may recommend porcelain veneers or composite bonding to cover dark spots on teeth. Veneers are costlier than other teeth whitening options.
You may also find many natural remedies when you search for how to get rid of dark spots on teeth. However, do not keep trying natural remedies while delaying a consultation with your dentist. That’s a surefire way to let the cause of black spots on teeth worsen, thus not only making it difficult to remove them but also leading to severe dental issues.
How To Prevent Dark Spots On Teeth?
Ideally, the question “how to get rid of black spots on teeth?” should be replaced with seeking advice on preventing black marks on teeth. To keep your pearly whites spotless, follow these tips:
- Brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes and floss once daily
- Use a whitening fluorinated toothpaste
- Rinse your teeth after consuming foods or beverages that stain teeth
- Avoid cigarettes and excessive alcohol
- Visit your dentist every 3-6 months for a check-up and professional cleaning