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When you think of a bruise, you might picture it turning the same colors as bruised skin – various rainbow hues before becoming brownish. However, though a tooth can take on shades of yellow, green, and other colors for certain oral conditions, a bruised tooth sticks with pink or gray. So what does it mean when it’s pink? Or when it’s gray? And what exactly causes a tooth to bruise?
What Causes a Bruised Tooth?
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Tooth Trauma | A fall, a blow to the face, or even biting down too hard can bruise a tooth. |
| Dental Procedures | Some dental procedures, such as a root canal, can cause a tooth to become bruised. |
| Infection | An infection in the tooth can cause it to become discolored. |
| Eating Certain Foods | Eating foods such as blueberries or beets can stain a tooth. |
| Smoking | Smoking can cause a tooth to become stained. |
| Grinding | Grinding your teeth can put extra pressure on them and cause bruising. |
What are the Symptoms of a Bruised Tooth?
Common bruised tooth symptoms include:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Discoloration | A bruised tooth is usually discolored, appearing pink, gray, or yellow. |
| Sensitivity | A bruised tooth may be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. |
| Inflammation | There may be swelling and redness around the tooth. |
| Bleeding | There may be bleeding from the gums. |
| Pain | A bruised tooth may be painful to the touch. |
How To Heal a Bruised Tooth?
If you’re dealing with a bruised tooth, there are several home remedies that may help alleviate the discomfort and support the healing process. While these remedies won’t replace professional dental care, they can help manage symptoms in the meantime:
| Home Remedy | Description |
|---|---|
| Rinse with Warm Water | Rinse your mouth with warm water to help cleanse the area. |
| Apply a Cold Compress | Apply a cold compress to the area to reduce swelling. |
| Take Pain Medication | Take over-the-counter pain medication to help with any discomfort. |
| See Your Dentist | See your dentist if the pain persists or if you are concerned about the appearance of your tooth. |
If you experience sensitivity, inflammation, or bleeding gums, it is essential to seek medical attention. Depending on the cause, a bruised tooth may require special treatment.
It’s common to experience a lingering ache after a tooth has been bruised. If the pain is severe or disappears after a few days, see your dentist for further evaluation.
How Can You Prevent Bruising a Tooth?
If you participate in contact sports, it is essential to wear a sports mouth guard to protect your teeth and prevent bruised teeth. Mouthguards can also help protect your teeth from other injuries, such as broken teeth or jaw fractures.
A custom mouthguard will provide better protection than a generic mouthguard, and it will be precisely fitted to your teeth.
Quality Dental Care Near You!
If you experience sensitivity, inflammation, or bleeding gums, it is essential to seek medical attention. Depending on the cause, a bruised tooth may require special treatment.
Omni Dental can help you get the treatment you need for a bruised tooth. We offer various services, including dental implants, Teeth cleaning, Teeth whitening, and more. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
We look forward to helping you achieve your best smile!
