Does A Root Canal Turn Your Teeth Black
Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure that is done to save a badly damaged or infected tooth. It involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth and filling it with a special material to prevent further infection. Despite its effectiveness, there are many myths and misconceptions about root canal treatment, including the belief that it can turn your teeth black. In this article, we will explore this myth and separate fact from fiction.
What Causes Discoloration of Teeth?
Before we dive into the myth of root canals turning your teeth black, it's important to understand what causes discoloration of teeth in the first place. There are many factors that can contribute to tooth discoloration, including:
- Age
- Genetics
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Drinking coffee, tea, or red wine
- Taking certain medications
While these factors can cause teeth to become discolored, they are not related to root canal treatment.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
During a root canal, your dentist or endodontist will numb the area around the affected tooth and remove the damaged or infected pulp. They will then clean out the root canals of the tooth and fill them with a special material to prevent further infection. In some cases, a dental crown may also be placed over the tooth to protect it.
While the procedure itself can be uncomfortable, it is not known to cause discoloration of teeth.
Why Do People Think Root Canals Turn Teeth Black?
So where did the myth of root canals turning teeth black come from? It is likely due to the fact that teeth that have undergone root canal treatment may appear slightly darker than other teeth. This is not because the root canal caused the discoloration, but rather because the tooth may have been damaged or infected for a long period of time before the root canal was performed.
Additionally, if a dental crown is placed over the tooth, it may not match the color of your other teeth, which can also contribute to the appearance of discoloration.
Can Discoloration Be Treated?
If you are concerned about the appearance of discolored teeth, there are several treatment options available. These include:
- Teeth whitening
- Dental bonding
- Porcelain veneers
- Crowns or bridges
Your dentist can help you determine the best treatment option based on your individual needs and goals.
The Bottom Line
While the myth of root canals turning teeth black may persist, it is simply not true. Discoloration of teeth can be caused by a variety of factors, but root canal treatment is not one of them. If you are in need of a root canal, don't let this myth stop you from getting the treatment you need to save your tooth.