Are You Teeth Starting to Look Gray? Learn the Most Common Causes of This Issue
There are many things that you are not surprised to look gray, such as an elephant, the sky while it is raining, and a person’s hair as they age. But are your teeth supposed to turn gray? No, they are not. There are actually many different reasons that this could be happening – all of which should prompt you to book an appointment with your California dentist.
It is Time to Get a Root Canal
If the nerve tissue in your tooth has become significantly damaged, then it can cause the tooth to start to gray. This is a sign that you need a root canal. The good news is that root canal therapy has improved in the past decade and is now much less painful and affordable than it once was.
You Hare Taking Certain Antibiotics
Tetracycline is no longer a very common antibiotic to be prescribed, but it is still often chosen by doctors to treat patients with Lyme disease, certain STIs, and Q fever. One of the side effects is that the teeth turn gray. If a pregnant woman takes it, her child could have graying teeth years later.
Internal Tooth Bleeding
This is a very uncommon issue, but if your tooth is bleeding inside, it will start to look gray. This is actually harmless if it does not come along with pain. However, if it is painful, or if it lasts for more than a few days, then you should contact a dentist.
The Tooth Has Been Subject to Trauma
If your tooth is a victim of a severe blow, then there could be trauma to the inside of the tooth. The tissue can slowly die as time goes on, which can lead to the tooth being discolored and turning gray or brown. If you are experiencing a graying tooth, think back over the last year to determine if your teeth have experienced any trauma.
You Have Fluorosis
As you might have gathered from the name, this is a condition related to fluoride exposure. This is not a serious condition, but if you have it and your teeth are exposed to too much fluoride as a child, then the enamel on your teeth might not develop correctly as an adult. The result is graying teeth or white streaks on the teeth.
Old Metal Fillings
If you have had old metal fillings in the past, they could be causing gray streaks today. The good news is that you can have the fillings replaced with white fillings that are virtually invisible. Just contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to set up an appointment and have your teeth assessed.
