A tooth turning black is usually a sign of decay, trauma, or staining—and it’s important not to ignore it. While surface stains from tea, coffee, or tobacco can darken teeth, a single black or grey tooth often points to deeper issues like a cavity, a dead nerve, or old fillings breaking down.
Common Causes & Symptoms
•Tooth decay : Starts as a white or brown spot, then turns black as enamel breaks down. You may notice sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when chewing, or food getting stuck.
•Trauma or dead tooth: After an injury, blood inside the tooth can oxidize and turn it grey or black over weeks. Pain, swelling, or a pimple-like bump on the gum may follow.
•Old fillings or crowns: Margins can leak, allowing stains or new decay to darken the tooth edge.
•Tartar buildup: Hardened plaque below the gumline can appear black due to blood pigments from inflamed gums.
Common Causes & Symptoms
•Tooth decay : Starts as a white or brown spot, then turns black as enamel breaks down. You may notice sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when chewing, or food getting stuck.
•Trauma or dead tooth: After an injury, blood inside the tooth can oxidize and turn it grey or black over weeks. Pain, swelling, or a pimple-like bump on the gum may follow.
•Old fillings or crowns: Margins can leak, allowing stains or new decay to darken the tooth edge.
•Tartar buildup: Hardened plaque below the gumline can appear black due to blood pigments from inflamed gums.
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