A bright, healthy smile is a confidence booster. But sometimes, unwanted black spots can appear on your teeth, putting a damper on your grin. These spots can be unsettling, and you might be wondering what black spot on teeth and how to remove them.
In this article, I’ll highlight the causes of these dark spots, and what you can do to remove them.
What are the Causes of Black or Dark Spot on Your Tooth?
If you’re noticing a black or dark spot on your tooth, it’s not necessarily because you’ve been using a Sharpie as a toothbrush substitute. In fact, that spot could signal potential trouble for your tooth.
Here are some common reasons behind the appearance of a black or brown spot on your teeth:
- Tooth Decay or Cavity: One of the most typical culprits behind these spots is tooth decay or the presence of a cavity.
- Tooth Injury: Sometimes, a dark spot can emerge as a result of trauma or injury to the tooth.
- Tartar Buildup: When plaque hardens into tartar on your tooth’s surface, it can darken and create spots.
- Staining from Food or Nicotine Products: Foods like coffee, tea, and soda, as well as smoking, can stain your teeth, leading to dark spots.
- Discoloration from Antibiotics: Taking certain antibiotics as a child, like tetracycline, can cause tooth discoloration.
- Fluorosis: Excessive intake of fluoride, whether through water, supplements, or dental products, can lead to fluorosis, which can manifest as dark spots on teeth.
- Medical Conditions: In some cases, underlying medical conditions such as celiac disease may contribute to tooth discoloration.
Identifying Signs of a Cavity
Ever wondered if you might have a cavity? Let’s talk about some clues that could indicate you do:
When tiny bits of food and bacteria stick to your teeth, they create a sticky film called plaque.
If this plaque sticks around, the acids it contains can gradually wear down the hard outer layer of your teeth, called enamel, which can lead to cavities forming.
Here are some signs that you might have a cavity:
- You see a dark spot or stain on one of your teeth.
- You feel a twinge of pain when you eat or drink something hot or cold.
- You have an ache in one of your teeth that just won’t go away.
- You notice a little hole or pit in one of your teeth.
- Sweet foods or drinks make your teeth feel sensitive.
- Eating makes your tooth hurt.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as you can. That way, they can check things out and stop any problems from getting worse.
Usually, if the cavity isn’t too deep and hasn’t reached the inside part of your teeth where the nerves are, your dentist might suggest filling it.
But if the decay has gone deeper and reached the soft part inside your teeth, called the pulp, it might cause inflammation or an infection. In that case, you might need a procedure called a root canal to clean out the decay and help you feel better.
Can You Remove a Black Spot from Your Tooth?
While the internet is full of DIY hacks, it’s crucial to approach black spot removal with caution. There are simple ways to tackle them at home. Here’s what you can do:
- Lemon: Lemons contain citric acid, which can soften plaque for easier removal. To use:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice and dip your toothbrush in it.
- Gently brush your teeth, making sure to reach all areas.
- Rinse your mouth with water afterward to remove any residue. Remember, use lemon juice sparingly to avoid harming your enamel.
- Salt: Salt not only cleans but also fights oral bacteria. Try these methods:
- Sprinkle salt on your toothbrush and brush as usual.
- Mix salt with a bit of lemon juice to create a paste, then brush with it for a few minutes.
- You can do this daily for better plaque removal.
- Baking Soda: Baking soda is great for cleaning plaque and whitening teeth. Here’s how to use it:
- Dip your toothbrush in baking soda and brush your teeth for two minutes.
- Alternatively, mix baking soda with lemon juice to make a paste and brush with it.
- After a few minutes, your teeth will look brighter and cleaner. But be careful not to overuse baking soda to avoid enamel damage.
Remember, These are not replacements for proper dental care. If you notice no improvement or worsening of black spots, consult your dentist for professional treatment.
Preventing Black Spots on Teeth
Now, let’s talk about how to prevent dark spots from forming on your teeth in the first place.
Dark spots on teeth are common, but there are steps you can take to prevent them and reduce your risk of tooth decay.
Here are some tips:
- Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day.
- Brushing After Eating/Drinking: Rinse your mouth or brush after consuming staining foods/drinks like coffee or tea.
- Use a Straw: Minimize contact with teeth by using a straw for staining beverages.
- Avoid Tobacco: Smoking stains teeth and increases the risk of oral health problems.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular cleanings and checkups to identify and address potential issues early.
- Consider Professional Whitening: If you’re concerned about stubborn stains, discuss professional whitening options with your dentist.
Final Thoughts
Even if you brush and floss your teeth every day, you might still see spots on them.
Some discoloration from eating and drinking is normal and usually not something to worry about. But a black spot could be a sign of tooth decay.
If you notice a black or dark spot on your tooth, it’s important to see your dentist. They can find out why it’s there and tell you what to do next.
If the spot is because of tooth decay, your dentist might suggest a filling, root canal, or another treatment. If the spot is due to staining from foods, drinks, or smoking, your dentist might recommend treatments to remove the stain and make your teeth whiter.