Tooth Turned Blue

A tooth turning blue can be a startling and unsettling experience, especially if you’re not sure what’s causing it. This unusual discoloration can be due to various reasons, ranging from harmless to more serious conditions that require immediate dental attention. Understanding the possible causes and appropriate responses is crucial for maintaining good oral health and addressing any underlying issues promptly.

Causes of a Blue Tooth

1. Dental Trauma: A tooth can turn blue or gray after a traumatic injury, such as a fall or a blow to the mouth. This discoloration is often due to the tooth’s pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels) being damaged. The blue color may appear because the blood from the damaged pulp can cause the tooth to darken.

2. Tooth Decay or Infection: In some cases, a blue or dark spot on a tooth can be a sign of decay or infection. This is more common when the decay is deep and has reached the pulp of the tooth.

3. Dental Materials: Sometimes, the materials used in dental procedures, such as silver amalgam fillings, can cause discoloration that appears blue or gray on the tooth surface or in the tooth structure itself.

4. Medications: Certain medications, when taken systemically (throughout the body), can cause tooth discoloration as a side effect. Though blue discoloration is rare, some drugs might lead to unusual pigmentation.

5. Tartar or Plaque: While not typically causing a blue color, heavy accumulations of tartar or plaque can lead to staining that might appear as a dark line or spot, especially near the gum line.

6. Genetic Conditions: Rare genetic conditions can affect the enamel or dentin of the teeth, potentially leading to unusual discolorations, including blue hues, though this is exceptionally rare.

What to Do

If you notice a tooth has turned blue, it’s essential to visit a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will examine the tooth and possibly take X-rays to determine the cause of the discoloration. Depending on the reason for the blue color, the dentist may recommend:

• Root Canal Treatment: If the tooth has turned blue due to pulp damage or infection, a root canal might be necessary to remove the damaged pulp, clean the area, and fill the tooth to prevent further issues.
• Filling or Crown: If the discoloration is due to decay, the dentist will remove the decayed portion and fill the tooth. In cases where the tooth is significantly damaged, a crown might be recommended to protect the tooth.
• Professional Cleaning: For discolorations caused by tartar or plaque, a professional dental cleaning can help remove the stains.

Prevention

Preventing tooth discoloration involves good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups. Here are some tips:

• Brush and Floss Regularly: Daily brushing and flossing help remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease.
• Avoid Trauma: Wearing a mouthguard during sports or other activities that could result in mouth injury can prevent dental trauma.
• Limit Stain-Causing Foods and Drinks: While not directly causing blue discoloration, reducing consumption of foods and drinks known to stain teeth (like coffee, wine, and berries) can help maintain tooth appearance.
• Regular Dental Visits: Regular check-ups allow dentists to catch any potential issues early, including signs of decay or infection that could lead to discoloration.

In conclusion, a blue tooth, while alarming, can often be treated effectively once the underlying cause is identified. Prompt action and a commitment to good oral health practices can help prevent such issues and maintain a healthy, vibrant smile.