Tooth discoloration is an issue many people deal with. It ranges in severity, but when a tooth appears gray, it can be alarming. It’s important to understand the potential causes and address the problem with a dentist as soon as you can, as it could be a sign of a more serious oral condition. Here's a look at the most common reasons a tooth starts to gray and what can be done about it.

3 Reasons Your Tooth Has Gray Coloring

1. Cavity

Cavities form when decay-causing bacteria weaken spots on teeth and cause them to break down. Rather than a whole tooth becoming gray, only a small part will discolor if you have a cavity. 

Fortunately, these issues are usually easy to repair. A dentist will clean the area and apply a dental filler made of metal amalgam, porcelain, or ceramic to fill it. Once hardened, you can use the tooth the same as you did before.

2. Staining 

Foods and beverages are common reasons for staining. The tannins in coffee and tea, artificial dyes and food coloring, berry juices, and bright vegetable sauces can all penetrate a tooth’s porous enamel and stain the sensitive dentin layer beneath, resulting in chronic discoloration. Tobacco use also causes gray teeth, and dentists recommend quitting this habit for oral health reasons as well as potentially life-threatening health problems. 

You can prevent food- and drink-related staining by rinsing your mouth after consuming these items and continuing to brush twice a day. A further option is to speak with a dentist about in-office teeth whitening treatments. These bleach the stained dentin to restore the natural tooth color.

3. Root Infection

Roof infections happen when cavities go unaddressed or when a tooth is severely injured. Bacteria and trauma interrupt blood flow inside the tooth. It stops receiving nutrients and begins to die, resulting in a gray color. 

It's best to seek care before the tooth is too weak and has to be extracted. A root canal is often needed at this early stage. The dentist will remove the infected pulp and fill it with an amalgam to save the tooth. In many cases, they'll then apply an artificial crown that protects the tooth from additional damage.

If you’re concerned about tooth discoloration, turn to the office of William U. Britton, DDS, MAGD, for solutions. This Chillicothe, OH, dentist is proud to welcome patients into a relaxing atmosphere. Dr. Britton offers an extensive scope of services, including gum disease treatment, root canal therapy, and teeth whitening to ensure every patient enjoys a healthy smile. Start exploring treatment options on his website or call (740) 772-2225 today to schedule an oral exam. Discover more insights and dental care tips on their Facebook page.