When you think of a bruise, you might picture it turning the same colors as bruised skin – various rainbow hues before becoming brownish. But 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?
- Tooth Trauma: A fall, a blow to the face, or even biting down too hard can cause a tooth to become bruised.
2. Dental procedures: Some dental procedures, such as a root canal, can cause a tooth to become bruised.
3. Infection: An infection in the tooth can cause it to become discolored.
4. Eating certain foods: Eating certain foods, such as blueberries or beets, can cause a tooth to become stained.
5. Smoking: Smoking can also cause a tooth to become stained.
6. Grinding: Grinding your teeth can put extra pressure on them and cause them to become bruised.
What are the Symptoms of a Bruised Tooth?
Common symptoms of a bruised tooth include:
1. Discoloration: A bruised tooth is usually discolored, appearing pink, gray, or yellow.
2. Sensitivity: A bruised tooth may be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.
3. Inflammation: There may be swelling and redness around the tooth.
4. Bleeding: There may be bleeding from the gums.
5. Pain: A bruised tooth may be painful to the touch.
Treating a Bruised Tooth
In most cases, a bruised tooth will not require any special treatment and will eventually heal on its own. In most cases counter pain relievers can do the job However, if the tooth is severely damaged or inflamed, it may need to be extracted. If you have a bruised tooth, it’s important to see your dentist so they can determine the best course of treatment for you.
If you have a bruised tooth, there are several things you can do to reduce the time to heal, including:
1. Rinse your mouth with warm water.
2. Apply a cold compress to the area to reduce swelling.
3. Take over-the-counter pain medication to help with any discomfort.
4. See your dentist if the pain persists or if you are concerned about the appearance of your tooth.
If you are experiencing sensitivity, inflammation, and bleeding of the gums, it is important to seek medical attention. A bruised tooth may require special treatment, depending on the cause.
It’s not uncommon to experience a lingering ache after a tooth has been bruised. If the pain is severe or does not go away after a few days, see your dentist for further evaluation.
How Can You Prevent Bruising a Tooth?
If you are someone who participates in contact sports, it is important 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 specifically fitted to your teeth.
Quality Dental Care Near Me
If you are experiencing sensitivity, inflammation, and bleeding of the gums, it is important to seek medical attention. A bruised tooth may require special treatment, depending on the cause.
Omni dental can help you get the treatment you need for a bruised tooth. We offer a variety of services, including dental implants, teeth whitening, and more. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve your best smile!
