Black stains on teeth are a common issue that
people seek out dental care to treat. When visiting a cosmetic dentist, you’ll hear the term “black stains” used to describe a dark line that appears at the base of the tooth where it meets the gum line. This staining can vary in appearance, ranging from a solid line to disconnected black dots. Unlike normal tooth discoloration related to foods and beverages, black stains are actually a form of tartar, or dental calculus, that has become hardened and trapped in the tooth.
As a dental patient, it’s essential to know the difference between black stains and cavities. The main difference is that black stains are a buildup on your teeth, while cavities are a hole in the tooth. To determine if you have a black stain or a cavity, use your tongue or a safe tool such as a toothpick or flosser to feel the dark area. If it’s built up from the tooth, it’s a black stain. If it’s a hole, it’s a cavity. If you find a cavity, be sure to schedule an appointment with your cosmetic dentist before it gets worse.
Relationship between Black Stains and Dental Health
While black stains on teeth are often associated with a lower cavity risk, it’s important to understand that the stains themselves don’t actually protect your teeth. Rather, the conditions that create black stains in your mouth are what help protect your teeth from decay. For example, people with high levels of calcium in their saliva tend to develop black tartar as children. This same high calcium level helps your saliva neutralize acid better, making it less likely for cavities to form.
The other condition associated with black stains is the predominance of Actinomyces species of oral bacteria. While these bacteria are less likely to cause cavities, they can still cause minor demineralization of tooth enamel. However, Actinomyces can cause root cavities, which are more likely to occur in people with receding gums.
Controlling Black Stains with Frequent Dental Cleanings
If you experience black tartar stains, there are easy treatments available. One of the simplest solutions is to increase the frequency of your regular dental cleanings. This will allow your dentist to remove the tartar before it builds up and creates visible staining. More regular dental cleanings can also help protect you against gum disease, which leads to receding gums. It will also allow your dentist to check your teeth to ensure the black spots on your teeth are not cavities.
In addition to increasing the frequency of dental cleanings, there are other ways to prevent black stains on teeth, including:
- Using an electric toothbrush to remove plaque more effectively
- Reducing your intake of sugary and acidic foods and beverages
- Drinking plenty of water to help rinse away food particles and plaque
- Chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production and neutralize acid in your mouth
Cosmetic Dental Solutions for Black Stains
If you’re unhappy with the appearance of black stains or any other cosmetic issues with your smile, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your Orange County cosmetic dentist. At Rice Dentistry in Irvine, our team of dental professionals can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Contact us today at
(949) 551-5902 to
schedule a consultation with an Orange County
cosmetic dentist at Rice Dentistry in Irvine.
