Table of Contents
What does the color of a cavity mean?
It’s assumed by most patients that a cavity is dark brown and ugly, but interestingly enough a cavity can come in a range of colors — from white to black, and even yellow. The color of a cavity is determined by bacteria and tooth decay, and the stage of the cavity itself.
Does brown on teeth mean cavity?
Typically, if there is a dark spot on your tooth, chances are high that there is an invisible hole. A cavity presents itself with a brown, black or gray spot on your tooth. It is a perfect way on how to tell if you have a cavity. A stain, on the other hand, is a discoloration caused by drinks and food.
Is a grey spot on tooth a cavity?
If you notice a black, brown, white or gray spot on your tooth, you may have a cavity. These soft spots in the enamel of the tooth indicate an infection has taken hold. If you notice a spot on your teeth but don’t yet feel pain, make an appointment with the dentist immediately — don’t wait until pain starts.
What is a tooth-colored filling?
Composite fillings – also known as tooth-colored fillings – are dental restorations designed to be inconspicuous and natural in appearance. They blend well with the teeth and appear more natural than amalgam fillings, which are darker and more easily seen by other people.
Why did my cavity turn black?
A tooth can turn dark for several reasons, including trauma, decay, amalgam fillings, some medications, a medical condition, and tobacco use. Trauma – When trauma affects your tooth, secondary dentin (the layer beneath the enamel) builds us.
Why is my tooth turning grey?
When a single tooth changes to become grey in color, you may have a condition known as a necrotic pulp. The pulp is the collection of nerves and blood vessels residing within the hollow chamber of each tooth. It is this pulp tissue that “dies” and most often causes color changes.
At what point is a cavity irreversible?
Once decay reaches the dentin the disease process is virtually irreversible. The diseased portion of the tooth needs to be removed and a restoration such as a filling or crown will be placed. If the decay goes all the way into the nerves and blood vessels of the pulp chamber the tooth will die.
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
Tooth-colored fillings are made from a mixture of fine glass and plastic particles. They are customized to match your enamel to blend in when you smile. Although they aren’t made from metal, they are durable. They generally last 10 to 12 years before needing to be replaced.
Are tooth-colored fillings better?
Composite resins, or tooth-colored fillings, provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small- to mid-size fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing. They can be used on either front or back teeth.
Can a grey tooth go back white?
Gray teeth may not go back to their original color unless they’re treated with whitening agents. If you don’t get the results you want from at-home treatment, your dentist may recommend in-office bleaching or veneers.
Can cavities go away if you brush them?
Fortunately, the beginning stages of a cavity can be reversed by taking steps toward good oral hygiene. During early demineralization, exposure to fluoride, daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleanings can all help prevent — or even reverse — tooth decay.
At what stage can a cavity be reversed?
But as of yet, it’s physically impossible. Once a tooth has a physical cavity (opening or hole) inside of it, there is no feasible way to help the enamel grow back on your own. Instead, the cavity will gradually worsen, due to the bacterial infection inside of the tooth structure.
Do cavities turn black?
So once decay reaches your dentin, the process of decay speeds up. As the bacteria and acids work their way through your dentin, the cavity hole gets larger. At this point, you may notice your cavity is brown or black in color. Your dentist will probably recommend a filling to stop the progress of the cavity.
Can tooth-colored fillings be whitened?
Crowns & Fillings Do Not React To Chemical Teeth Whiteners Unlike your natural teeth, the peroxide used to whiten teeth does not react to the material of your tooth-colored crown or filling. They cannot be whitened, and will always remain the same shade even if you have the rest of your teeth whitened.