Black Lines On Teeth: Meaning, Causes, Presentation, Treatment
All About Dental Treatments in Turkey
What are black lines on teeth?
Black lines may be visible on the tooth surface, particularly in the area close to the gum line. These can be caused by plaque build-up, tartar, and discolouration beneath the enamel. They are generally harmless but may be a sign of a dental problem. Therefore, patients should visit their dentist if they notice black lines on their teeth.
Types of black lines on teeth
Black lines on teeth are divided into two main groups: extrinsic (external) black lines and intrinsic (internal) black lines. Extrinsic black lines are caused by staining of the outer surface of the tooth due to factors such as tea, coffee, smoking, plaque, and tartar. Intrinsic black lines, on the other hand, are stains that form within the tooth structure due to decay, trauma, leakage from old metal fillings, or dentine pigmentation. Intrinsic stains are more significant than extrinsic stains and require intervention.
Why do black lines on teeth occur?
Plaque and tartar build-up, pigmented beverages such as tea, smoking, and certain bacteria that produce dark colours on the tooth surface can cause black lines to form on the teeth. In addition, the onset of decay and the metal shadowing from old amalgam fillings can also cause staining. If these lines are not monitored, decay can occur.
How are black lines on teeth diagnosed?
Black spots appear on the teeth, followed by black lines. These occur particularly near the gum line and on the back surfaces of the teeth. Individuals can check for these by looking in the mirror; for the black lines on the back surfaces, assistance from someone else may be required. If there is sensitivity in teeth that have changed colour, it could indicate tooth decay.
How to remove black lines on teeth at home
Individuals can remove superficial black lines at home. The important thing here is to use a safe method. Methods used for teeth should be suitable for tooth enamel and oral health.
Safe methods that can be used at home to clean black lines: regular brushing of teeth, use of dental floss, and oil pulling with coconut oil contribute to the removal of black stains on teeth.
Some recommendations for removing tooth stains can cause damage to the teeth. Therefore, you should avoid certain methods, such as abrasive or acidic mixtures like lemon, vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, and salt; abrasive whitening powders; and scraping the tooth surface with metal or sharp objects. These methods cause enamel loss and gum recession.
When should a dentist be consulted?
If black lines persist despite regular dental care, if they increase, or if they are accompanied by sensitivity and pain, you should consult your dentist.
The dentist will perform an examination. If they suspect that the black line on the teeth is decay, they will take an X-ray to examine the roots and the inside of the teeth. This will determine whether the line is a superficial stain or an internal problem. The dentist will make a diagnosis and apply treatment. If it is only a stain on the upper part, the dentist will clean the lines by cleaning the tooth; if it is caused by decay, a filling will be applied. If there are minor defects in the tooth, composite bonding is used to achieve an aesthetic result, while a crown is applied in cases of advanced decay or tooth defects.
Aftercare and risk of recurrence
If you have been using your toothbrush for more than a couple of months, it is beneficial to replace it. This prevents bacteria from quickly settling on your teeth after brushing. Maintaining regular oral hygiene and brushing for two minutes greatly prevents black lines from reappearing. Black stains on the teeth of people who consume a lot of cigarettes, tea and coffee can form more quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Can black lines reappear after treatment?
Yes. They will reappear if oral hygiene is poor or if there is heavy consumption of tea, coffee or cigarettes. In addition to regular dental cleaning, it is important to brush carefully for two minutes. If patients pay attention to this, they will be free of black stains on their teeth for a long time.
How to remove black lines in pits of molars
Black stains on molars are a common occurrence. This is because molars and the grooves in teeth are difficult to clean. Insufficient cleaning leads to black stains caused by decay or black lines on healthy teeth. To get rid of black lines on molars, you can use mouthwash after brushing your teeth, or for more effective results, you can have your teeth cleaned by your dentist.
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