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When black spots appear on your teeth, you might instantly assume they are cavities. While many black spots indicate decay and potential cavities, this is not always true. Other dental or health issues can cause spots that appear over time on your teeth. You must know these to seek the right help and protect your health. In this writeup, you can discover why black spots might develop on your teeth that are not cavities.

What are black spots on teeth that aren’t cavities?

Many dental or health problems can cause black spots on teeth that are not cavities. Do not always predict they are cavities and leave them to worsen. They could be a sign of disease or preventative tooth discoloration.

Age and genetics

Sometimes black spots cannot be cured. If you are getting older or have a family history of black spots on your teeth, they could happen to you. Hormonal changes can also increase the risk of tooth staining as you age.

A build-up of tartar

Some people have higher levels of calcium in their saliva. Calcium can be beneficial for protecting teeth from decay. Too much calcium can also lead to the formation of darkly discolored tartar. Tartar can cause black stains along the gumline on the tooth’s surface.

Stains from tannins

Tannins are natural compounds found in plants and are common in beverages like tea, coffee, and wine. These tannins can lead to the development of dark spots on the surface of your teeth.

Using too much fluoride

Although we are advised to use fluoride products to improve oral health, overexposure to fluoride during early childhood can lead to discoloration of adult teeth. Too much fluoride can cause yellow to dark brown spots, which can be easily mistaken for black spots.

Things you consume

First, the use of tobacco, whether through smoking or chewing, can cause significant staining to the enamel of the teeth. Second, foods that are high in color, such as cherries, can contribute to tooth discoloration. Finally, medications can cause tooth discoloration. While the antibiotic tetracycline can help your health, it can be problematic for your teeth. 

Celiac disease

Some people have celiac disease because they eat gluten. The condition causes the immune system to attack body tissue, resulting in dental enamel discoloration, which manifests as white, yellow, or brown spots on the teeth.

Understanding the difference between black spots and cavities

Now you know the many other reasons why black spots can occur, it is good to apprehend the difference between a black spot on your tooth and a cavity. The most noticeable change is the surface texture of your tooth. If your tooth changes in texture, the black spots might be caused by one of the above issues. If it is a cavity, a small hole will form. If you want to speak to a dental expert and seek treatment and advice for your black teeth spots, contact us at Kakar Dental Group.