Certain signs of discoloration are reasonably acceptable. But when it comes to your dental fillings turning darker or black, that’s something you mustn’t ignore. 

Although it’s not uncommon, discoloration in dental fillings requires immediate attention. Aside from the fact that it changes the way your teeth look, it might also indicate underlying issues which are more serious than you think.

So, if your tooth filling suddenly turned black and you are unsure what to do about it, this article is for you. 

We’ll explore why dental fillings might change color, what the underlying causes could be, and when it’s essential to see a dentist. You’ll gain clarity on what steps to take next, and we’ll share some surprising insights that could put your mind at ease or prompt you to take action. Keep reading to learn more about what your blackened filling could mean for your dental health.

Understanding Tooth Discoloration

Before we dive into the various reasons why dental fillings turn from pearly a white to grainy black, it’s important to understand your tooth’s properties.

The way a tooth looks can vary because the enamel (the outermost layer of the tooth), dentin (the innermost part of the tooth), and pulp all interact with light differently.

Generally, the dentin is usually yellowish and darker than the enamel. Because enamel is translucent, the color of dentin can influence the overall color of the tooth.

However, the transparency and thickness of the enamel allow it to blend with the dentin, giving the tooth a more consistent and natural color.

In other words, the way a tooth appears can change because enamel, dentin, and pulp all respond to light in unique ways. When a tooth changes its color, it may be due to the underlying dentin being darker and more visible through the enamel. 

Since the color of our teeth is influenced by the interaction of enamel, dentin, and pulp with light, understanding these factors can help us better understand why dental fillings might appear discolored, including turning black.

Let’s dig deeper into this topic by going through the different types of tooth discoloration.

Types of Tooth Discoloration 

According to dental experts, tooth discoloration can be categorized into three types: those caused by external factors (extrinsic), those resulting from internal influences (intrinsic), and those arising from stain absorption into the tooth (stain internalization).

Extrinsic Discoloration (External Factors)

• Regular consumption of these beverages such coffee, tea, or red wine
• Tobacco use
• Poor oral hygiene or inadequate brushing and flossing 

Intrinsic Discoloration (Internal Factors)

• Trauma to the Tooth: If a tooth is injured, the internal bleeding or damage can cause the tooth to turn gray or brown over time as the dentin reacts to the trauma.
• Fluorosis or excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development 
• Tetracycline antibiotics: If taken by a pregnant woman or a young child, this antibiotic can cause intrinsic discoloration, leading to teeth that may appear yellow, brown, or even blue-gray as they develop.

Tooth Stain from Within

• If the enamel is chipped or cracked, it can allow stains from food, drinks, or tobacco to penetrate deeper into the tooth, leading to internalized discoloration.
• When decay begins within the tooth, it can cause internal staining that may start out as a white spot and then progress to brown or black as the decay worsens.

These examples illustrate how different factors, both external and internal, can contribute to tooth discoloration and how they may also affect the color of your dental fillings. 

Therefore, identifying the different types of tooth discoloration is crucial in understanding why dental fillings can turn dark. Such an awareness is also essential in selecting the most appropriate treatment plan. This may also provide your dentist guidance on whether to retain or replace the filling with a new one.

That leads us to our next point: addressing dental filling discoloration.

What to Do If Your Filling Turns Black

What we’ve established thus far is that dental fillings can turn black due to extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Decay, cracks, or chips on your tooth can also cause internal staining. 

At this point, we’ll provide practical tips to help you address tooth filling discoloration. By following these tips, you can help prevent your dental fillings from turning black and maintain a healthy, attractive smile.

For External Factors Leading to Filling Discoloration

• Limit staining beverages: Reduce your consumption of coffee, tea, and red wine. Also, consider drinking them with a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
• Avoid tobacco: Quitting smoking or using other tobacco products is crucial for preventing discoloration and maintaining overall oral health.
• Practice excellent oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and use a mouthwash to remove plaque and bacteria that can contribute to discoloration.

For Internal Factors

• Protect your teeth: Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night or play contact sports to prevent injuries to your tooth and dental filling
• Avoid excessive fluoride: If you live in an area with high fluoride levels in the water, consider using a fluoride-free toothpaste or drinking bottled water.
• Consult your Upland dentist: If you have concerns about tetracycline staining or other intrinsic factors, discuss them with your Upland dentist for a tailored treatment plan.

For Stains Within

• Maintain strong enamel: Eat a healthy diet rich in calcium and phosphorus to strengthen your enamel and prevent it from chipping or cracking.
• Address dental decay promptly: See your dentist in California regularly for check-ups and to treat any cavities or decay that may lead to internal staining.

Consult Upland Dental Practice 

If you notice any changes in your dental fillings, this ultimate guide can help you seamlessly navigate towards an appropriate action plan. Most importantly, it’s highly important to prioritize seeking expert advice should you have any concern or issue relating to your dental filling. To ease your anxiety or fear, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Upland Dental Practice. Our experienced team is here to provide top-quality dental care and ensure your oral health is in optimal condition.