Causes of Black Tooth Stains and How To Remove Them

Black tooth stains can be unsightly and difficult to get rid of. But what causes them? How to prevent them in the first place. And more importantly, how can you get rid of them? Let’s take a look.

Causes of Black Tooth Stains

Black staining is mainly a result of poor oral hygiene. There are two primary causes of black tooth stains: external factors and internal factors.

External factors include things like what you eat and drink, as well as smoking. As per health direct, acids from plaque and sugary foods can damage the protective enamel coating. Foods and drinks that are dark in color, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, can all contribute to staining your teeth. And while smoking does not actually stain your teeth, the tar and nicotine in cigarettes can cause your teeth to become yellow or even brown over time.
Smoking is also linked to tartar build-up on your teeth and cigarettes can stain your teeth, gums, and tongue black.

As per SA health, recreational drugs like marijuana, ecstasy, amphetamines, methamphetamines, and heroin, along with replacement drugs like methadone, can also stain your teeth black.

Internal factors are things that happen inside your mouth. For example, if you have gum disease or cavities, that can lead to black tooth stains. Additionally, certain medical conditions or medications can also cause your teeth to become stained.

How To Get Rid Of Black Tooth Stains?

The good news is that there are a number of ways to get rid of black tooth stains. Most of the time, when a tooth turns black, a dental visit is recommended.

If your tooth has turned black, chances are you might lose it and a dentist might be able to save it with root canal treatment, which involves cleaning out the decay portion along with the inner tooth material and restoring the tooth structure with a crown.

In some cases, You can try at-home remedies like brushing your teeth with baking soda or using apple cider vinegar as a mouthwash. Or you could opt for professional treatments like teeth whitening or dental veneers.
If the black colour is limited to one tooth or a few adjacent teeth, and if you’re experiencing pain, chances are, it might not be staining after all. An underlying infection or in some cases, trauma can cause internal bleeding that appears black from the outside. If you suspect an infection, or if you’ve recently suffered a blow or shock on the teeth, you should see your dentist as soon as possible.

Conclusion:

If you’re dealing with black tooth stains, you’re not alone. There are many causes of black tooth stains, but the good news is that there are also many ways to get rid of them. So don’t despair. With a little bit of effort, you can have the bright white smile you’ve always wanted.
You can book a Free consultation with us to find out the best options to get sparkling white teeth and a healthy mouth.