One Dark Tooth Deserves a Different Conversation from General Staining
When one tooth becomes darker than its neighbors, the cause may differ from ordinary surface staining. Previous trauma, decay, a restoration, or changes inside the tooth can affect its color. A whitening strip cannot diagnose those possibilities.
Tell the dentist about the timeline
Mention whether the change followed an injury, developed gradually, or came with pain or sensitivity. A tooth can change color long after an accident, so include older injuries even if they seemed minor. Photographs may help document the change but do not replace an examination.
Treatment depends on the cause
The dentist may recommend tests or radiographs before discussing appearance. Options can differ from those used for general whitening and may involve treating an underlying problem first. Do not repeatedly bleach a dark tooth in an effort to match the rest of the smile. Atlantic Dental Associates of Shallotte can evaluate a color change and explain which steps protect the tooth’s health before cosmetic changes are considered.