Why is My Tooth Turning Gray?

If you’ve noticed one of your teeth is turning gray, it can be an alarming sight. Although it may sound like a cosmetic issue, underlying factors can indicate that something more serious might be occurring inside the tooth itself. 

What Causes a Tooth to Turn Gray?

Dead Teeth: One of the most common causes behind a gray tooth is that it’s dead. The nerve and blood supply inside the tooth has been lost due to a crack or deep cavity, leading to discoloration. This happens because when teeth die, dentin (the layer beneath the enamel) is exposed, causing it to darken over time. 

Aging: As we age, the enamel on our teeth can begin to wear down, making them look darker. This is due to a thinning of the membrane that protects our teeth from decay and bacteria. 

Trauma: A tooth can turn grey if it has been through recent trauma or injury, like a fall or accident. The force of the impact can cause damage and discoloration to the enamel of a tooth. 

Root Canals: If you have had a root canal, if there is any pulp or material used to fill the canal left inside your tooth, it can cause discoloration. 

Dentinogenesis Imperfecta: This is a rare inherited disease that causes the dentin to be discolored with a yellow-brown or blue-gray appearance. 

Exposure to Antibiotics Before the Age of 8: Some antibiotics like tetracycline, can cause discoloration of the teeth. If a fetus or child is exposed to these antibiotics, it can cause discoloration of the permanent teeth as they develop in the mouth. 

How is the Cause of a Gray Tooth Determined? 

If you think one of your teeth is turning gray, it’s important to visit a dentist for an evaluation. During the exam, the root structure of your tooth will be inspected, and X-rays may also be taken to determine if there are any underlying issues with the pulp inside. 

Treatment Options for Gray Teeth 

Once the cause of a gray tooth has been determined, your dentist can recommend appropriate treatment. In some cases, teeth whitening may be sufficient to lighten the discoloration. Veneers can also be used to whiten the tooth and restore its natural color. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are customized to fit over the front surface of the tooth. Dental crowns are another option to restore a gray tooth to its natural state. A dental crown is a cap that is placed over the entire tooth and bonded in place.  If a dead or decaying tooth is causing the issue, then extraction may be necessary.

For those who require an extraction, our team of experienced dentists will take into account the condition of your tooth and provide a plan that ensures a successful treatment. The process begins by numbing the area around the tooth, followed by slowly loosening it with special instruments. Once it is removed, stitches may be applied to help promote healing and prevent infection. 

It’s also important to consider what comes after a tooth extraction. Your dentist will discuss the various options for replacing a missing tooth and which method is best suited for your individual needs.

Choosing a Local Orthodontist

From whitening to extraction, our team at Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics has the expertise and experience to determine what’s causing your grey tooth and provide effective solutions tailored to your specific needs. If you've noticed discoloration in your tooth, it is critical to seek treatment as soon as possible. Contact us today to get started on treatment.