A tooth turning grey after an injury can be an alarming sight, especially when it occurs unexpectedly. Whether it’s the result of a sports accident, a fall, or even biting into something too hard, the discoloration of a tooth is often a sign of trauma that should not be ignored. A grey tooth typically indicates that the tooths internal structures have been affected, particularly the nerve or pulp, and it could be a sign of a more serious underlying issue.
In this blog, we will explore what it means when a tooth turns grey after an injury, the potential causes of this discoloration, and what steps you can take to address the issue promptly and effectively.
Why Does a Tooth Turn Grey After Injury?
A grey or darkened tooth usually occurs when the tooths nerve or pulp becomes damaged or starts to die following an injury. Here’s a breakdown of the potential reasons for this:
Trauma to the Tooth’s Nerve:
When a tooth is hit, knocked, or injured, the force can cause damage to the nerve inside the tooth (the pulp). This damage can cause the blood flow to the pulp to be interrupted, leading to internal bleeding and the gradual death of the nerve. The tooth may turn grey or dark as a result of this internal damage.
Internal Bleeding or Hemorrhaging:
After trauma, the blood vessels within the tooth may rupture, leading to internal bleeding. This can cause a reddish or purplish hue inside the tooth, which can eventually turn grey as the blood cells break down over time. The colour change is the result of the breakdown of red blood cells within the tooths pulp.
Absence of Proper Blood Flow:
If the injury to the tooth is severe, it may cause a lack of blood flow to the pulp, resulting in a necrotic or dead tooth. As the pulp tissue dies, the tooth loses its normal vitality and starts to discolor. A grey tooth can often be a sign that the nerve inside is no longer functioning properly.
External Staining:
In some cases, external factors such as smoking, drinking coffee, or other staining agents can contribute to the discoloration of a tooth after an injury. However, in most cases where the discoloration appears suddenly after trauma, the cause is internal.
What to Do If a Tooth Turns Grey After Injury
If you notice that a tooth has turned grey after an injury, its important to take immediate action. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Assess the Injury and Symptoms
First, evaluate the severity of the injury. If the tooth has been knocked out, fractured, or theres visible swelling, these are signs that you need to seek dental help right away. Additionally, check for symptoms like pain, tenderness, or sensitivity to hot or cold, which can indicate nerve damage. A grey tooth without any pain may still require attention, as it may indicate internal trauma.
2. Contact Your Dentist Immediately
A grey tooth often means that the pulp or nerve inside the tooth is compromised. Even if the tooth is not causing significant pain, it is crucial to visit your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will evaluate the injury, take X-rays, and determine the best course of action. Ignoring the problem can lead to further complications, such as infection, abscess formation, or tooth loss.
3. Keep the Tooth Clean and Avoid Irritation
While you wait for your dental appointment, its important to maintain good oral hygiene. Gently brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush and avoid putting excessive pressure on the injured tooth. If the tooth is loose or fractured, try to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth to prevent further damage.
Additionally, avoid eating sticky or hard foods that could exacerbate the injury. If youre experiencing discomfort, a cold compress can help reduce swelling and numb the area temporarily.
4. Manage Any Pain or Swelling
If the injured tooth is causing pain, you can take over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) to alleviate discomfort. Make sure to follow the dosage instructions on the packaging and consult with your dentist if the pain persists or becomes severe. If theres noticeable swelling, applying a cold compress to the outside of your face near the affected area can help reduce swelling and provide some relief.
5. Consider Potential Long-Term Treatments
After your dentist examines the tooth, they may recommend one of several treatments depending on the severity of the injury:
Pulpotomy or Root Canal: If the pulp (nerve) inside the tooth is damaged but not yet dead, your dentist may perform a pulpotomy or root canal treatment. This involves removing the damaged or infected pulp, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further damage or infection.
Tooth Whitening: If the grey discoloration is due to internal bleeding but the tooth is still alive, your dentist may recommend internal whitening (also called “walking bleach”). This involves placing a whitening agent inside the tooth and sealing it. Over time, the tooth may return to a more natural color.
Tooth Extraction: If the damage to the tooth is severe and the nerve has died, the tooth may need to be extracted. If extraction is necessary, your dentist will discuss tooth replacement options, such as a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture.
Veneer or Crown: If the tooth is structurally sound but unsightly, your dentist may recommend placing a veneer or crown over the tooth to restore its appearance. This can also protect the tooth from further damage.
Can a Grey Tooth Be Saved?
In many cases, a grey tooth can be saved, but it depends on the extent of the damage. If the tooths nerve is still healthy and the tooth is structurally sound, it may be possible to restore it with a root canal and whitening treatment. However, if the tooth has died and there is significant structural damage or infection, extraction may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading to the surrounding tissues.
How to Prevent Future Injury
While accidents happen, you can take steps to reduce the risk of injury to your teeth in the future:
Wear a Mouthguard: If you participate in sports, particularly contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from injury.
Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Biting down on hard foods or objects (such as ice, pens, or hard candy) can cause damage to your teeth. Always chew cautiously to avoid fractures.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Healthy teeth are more resistant to injury, so maintain a regular brushing and flossing routine to keep your teeth strong.
Conclusion
A tooth turning grey after an injury is often a sign of trauma to the nerve or pulp, and it requires prompt dental attention. Whether the issue is caused by internal bleeding, nerve damage, or another underlying issue, its essential to contact your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will assess the severity of the injury and recommend the most appropriate treatment to restore the tooths appearance and functionality.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we are here to help you with any dental injury or trauma. If you notice any changes in your tooth color or experience pain after an injury, dont waitcontact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure that your tooth remains healthy and intact.