Child's Front Tooth Turned Black After Injury: What to Do?

Q: Child's Front Tooth Turned Black After Injury: What to Do?

Hello： The blackened teeth indicate pulp necrosis. <br>After the child experienced the impact, the teeth may have been displaced. <br>It is recommended to visit a pediatric dentist for treatment and stabilization. <br>Typically, children start to lose their primary teeth around t

A 2-year-old child has bumped their front tooth, and two weeks later, the tooth has turned black. What should be done?

Hello Dr.
Huang, my child is 2 years and 5 months old.
On March 13, he accidentally bumped into the floor, and the gap in his front teeth became larger.
We visited the dentist on March 15, and the doctor examined the X-rays, which showed no abnormalities, just the enlarged gap.
However, today I noticed that the front tooth on the affected side has turned black both inside and outside.
After searching online, I found that it might indicate that the pulp is necrotic and that a root canal may be necessary.
Should we really proceed with that, or can we wait until the child grows up and loses the baby teeth?

lo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/30

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry

Hello: The blackened teeth indicate pulp necrosis.
After the child experienced the impact, the teeth may have been displaced.
It is recommended to visit a pediatric dentist for treatment and stabilization.
Typically, children start to lose their primary teeth around the age of 7, so it is not advisable to wait until the tooth is replaced to address this issue.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Kuan-Yu Chu, Attending Dentist, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/03/30

More Info

When a child's front tooth turns black after an injury, it can be concerning for both the child and the parents. The discoloration typically indicates that the tooth's nerve has been damaged, which can lead to necrosis (death of the nerve tissue). In your case, since your child is only 2 years and 5 months old and the tooth has turned black after a fall, it is essential to address this issue promptly.

The first step is to consult a pediatric dentist, who specializes in treating dental issues in children. They will likely perform a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the extent of the damage. If the tooth has indeed suffered nerve damage, the dentist may recommend a procedure known as pulpotomy or root canal treatment for primary teeth. This procedure involves removing the damaged nerve tissue and cleaning the inside of the tooth to prevent infection.
While some parents may consider waiting for the child to lose the tooth naturally, this approach can lead to complications. If the nerve is dead, the tooth may become infected, which can cause pain, swelling, and even affect the surrounding teeth and gums. Additionally, an untreated infection can lead to the formation of an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that can cause further health issues.

Regarding the concern about whether the tooth will improve on its own when the child eventually loses it, it is important to note that while primary teeth do eventually fall out, the health of the tooth during this period is crucial. The primary teeth serve as placeholders for the permanent teeth, and any issues with them can affect the alignment and health of the permanent teeth that will emerge later.

In summary, it is advisable to seek treatment for your child's blackened tooth rather than waiting for it to fall out. A pediatric dentist can provide the necessary care to ensure that the tooth is treated appropriately, minimizing the risk of complications. If the tooth is indeed necrotic, timely intervention can help preserve the tooth's structure and health until it naturally falls out, allowing for a smoother transition to the permanent teeth.

In addition to the dental treatment, it is also essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices for your child. Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste (if age-appropriate) and routine dental check-ups can help prevent further dental issues. If your child experiences any pain or discomfort, or if you notice any swelling or changes in the surrounding gums, it is crucial to seek immediate dental care.

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to wait and see if the tooth improves on its own, proactive treatment is the best course of action to ensure your child's dental health and overall well-being.

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