What causes tooth roots to turn black?

Blackening of tooth roots is quite common in our daily life. There are many reasons for blackening of teeth, including endogenous substances and exogenous substances. It is also related to some bad eating habits and oral hygiene. In addition, if a person has had improper use of medication when he was young, such as a history of taking tetracycline, this will also cause blackening of tooth roots.

What causes tooth roots to turn black?

1. The reason why the tooth root turns black: endogenous substances

There are two sources of substances that cause changes in the color of gums or oral mucosa. One source comes from the body itself and is called endogenous substances. The main ones are melanin and various pigments derived from hemoglobin. The other part comes from outside the body, which is called exogenous substances, mainly heavy metals, dyes, plant pigments and drugs.

2. The reason why the tooth root turns black: exogenous pigment substances

In addition, some exogenous pigment substances, such as heavy metal salts (lead, mercury), are absorbed into the body through the blood circulation and can form band-shaped or linear light gray or blue-black pigment deposits on the edge of the gums, which are called lead lines and mercury lines. Long-term heavy smokers will also have pigmentation deposits caused by tobacco on the surface of their gums. Some medications can also cause changes in the color of the oral mucosa and teeth.

Developing good oral hygiene habits can prevent the occurrence of gingivitis and periodontitis. Brushing your teeth regularly in the morning and evening and rinsing your mouth after meals can remove dirt and food debris and prevent the formation of dental plaque and tartar. If the pigmented areas on the gums or upper palate become rough, raised, bleed easily, or develop lumps, you should see a doctor promptly.

3. Bad habits and poor oral hygiene lead to black tooth roots

Regular habitual consumption of dark foods such as strong tea, coffee, cola, etc. will cause teeth to turn black and yellow. Other bad habits such as chewing betel nuts and smoking can also cause dark pigments to accumulate on the surface of teeth over time, and some can even penetrate into the tooth enamel, causing tooth discoloration.

4. Aging causes the roots of teeth to turn black

Aging can also cause teeth to turn darker and yellower. As we age, tooth enamel becomes thinner and gradually loses its transparency. Relatively speaking, the inner layer of yellow dentin becomes thicker, making the teeth increasingly yellower and darker.