“Are black spots on teeth cavities?”
I am a 23 year old male. I want to know if black spots on teeth are cavities?
6 Answers
If the enamel is soft on the black spots, yes they are cavities. The way we check is by utilizing a very sharp tool, and if that tool sticks instead of running smoothly on that area, then it is decay. Decay comes in many ways and colors from chalky white to yellow, to brown to black, somewhat soft to very soft. Pressing firmly the sharp tip of an explorer and if it sticks, then it is decay. Also there are more modern chemical ways to check for decay, even some light translucency with special light sources, even lasers. The gold standard remains a sharp explorer, if it sticks is decay. Decay is a decalcification process of the tooth structure, usually by acid, were it may be acid from bacteria, foods, chemicals, etc.etc.
Not necessarily, sometimes they are just stains. That is why it is so important to have an expert like a dentist check your teeth regularly.
They could be cavities or just stains. They should be checked By a Dentist
Black spots could be a sign of decay or they could be calculus/plaque on your teeth if it has been years since your dental cleaning! Could be tea or coffee stains, too. I would advise to get a dental check-up and X-rays to make sure!
Hello,
This is a great question to be asking! Unfortunately, the answer is not so straightforward. Black spots on teeth cavities or staining. To distinguish between staining and cavity a good dentist has to take a few things into consideration, including: the area of the tooth it is on, hardness of the area, dietary habits, cavity susceptibility, etc. Certain areas of the tooth are more susceptible to cavities than others. If the black spot is soft (under careful exploration), it is likely to be a cavity. If it is hard, it could be staining. Dietary habits of the patient will suggest if staining is likely. If the person has never had a cavity before, it is unlikely that they started now unless some other factor has intervened. However, it is easier to say that black area is a cavity; so make sure it is a good dentist that does the exam.
Hope this helps.
My best to you!
William F. Scott IV, DMD
This is a great question to be asking! Unfortunately, the answer is not so straightforward. Black spots on teeth cavities or staining. To distinguish between staining and cavity a good dentist has to take a few things into consideration, including: the area of the tooth it is on, hardness of the area, dietary habits, cavity susceptibility, etc. Certain areas of the tooth are more susceptible to cavities than others. If the black spot is soft (under careful exploration), it is likely to be a cavity. If it is hard, it could be staining. Dietary habits of the patient will suggest if staining is likely. If the person has never had a cavity before, it is unlikely that they started now unless some other factor has intervened. However, it is easier to say that black area is a cavity; so make sure it is a good dentist that does the exam.
Hope this helps.
My best to you!
William F. Scott IV, DMD
Not necessarily, they can just be stains in the grooves on the tooth surfaces. You should have a dental exam to know for sure.
