Black and Gray Stains on Teeth: Causes and Solutions

Q: Black and Gray Stains on Teeth: Causes and Solutions

Hello： 1. Please use according to the product instructions. 2. A physical examination by a physician is necessary to know for sure. 3. 5 to 10 minutes is quite normal. 4. Bass brushing technique. 6. It is recommended to extract teeth in stages.

There is a small black-gray mark at the junction of the gums and teeth that appeared today, and it was completely absent this morning while brushing! (I would like to ask some additional questions.)

This morning, on October 5th, while brushing my teeth, the area where my teeth connect to my gums looked normal.
However, after brushing my teeth tonight, I noticed a small black and gray mark on my left central incisor.
Recently, I have finally relieved myself of heavy coursework and work, and I have started to pay more attention to my oral hygiene.
I also discovered that my right wisdom tooth has a cavity (which doesn't hurt), so I increased my brushing frequency (not exceeding three times a day, as I am worried about damaging my teeth) and frequently checked my teeth.
This morning, when I checked my teeth, the area where my left central incisor and right canine connect to my gums looked normal with no marks, but after brushing tonight, I found the marks.
What could be the cause of this? Could it be because I forgot to bring my toothbrush out today and only rinsed my mouth after lunch? Or could it be an issue with the toothpaste? I am using Carrefour's whitening salt toothpaste, but I read online that whitening toothpaste might damage teeth, so I decided to switch to another brand.
Can these marks be removed during a dental cleaning?
This week, I have tried several brushing techniques: horizontal brushing, circular brushing, and an upward brushing technique (which I heard doesn’t harm the gums, but I later read that vertical brushing is recommended).
I also control the pressure while brushing, trying to brush gently.
I am very worried about cavities! I have switched dental clinics several times; the clinic I visited before the pandemic never took X-rays, and although I had cleanings, they never mentioned whether I had cavities.
I am considering changing to another clinic for regular check-ups, but I haven’t seen a dentist in nearly two years due to the pandemic, and I am currently trying to make an appointment, not knowing how long it will take.
T-T
By the way, I have a few questions for the doctor:
1.
Should mouthwash be used daily or only 1-2 times a week? I read online that mouthwash should be used 1-2 times a week, but one bottle says to use it every morning and evening, while another bottle doesn’t specify.

2.
Since I started focusing on oral hygiene, my mouth has become dry, and I occasionally notice a white or translucent film in my mouth.
Could this be caused by the toothpaste?
3.
How long should I brush my teeth for it to be considered normal? I currently brush for more than 5-10 minutes (including flossing and using mouthwash).

4.
What is the best brushing technique that doesn’t harm the gums?
5.
The manual that came with my electric toothbrush states that it should not be used for more than 2 minutes, but I have occasionally exceeded that time.
Could this damage my teeth? I am hesitant to use the electric toothbrush now and have started using a soft-bristled manual toothbrush.

6.
Will the process of extracting two wisdom teeth take a long time? Will it hurt?
7.
Can dental floss picks replace traditional dental floss?
8.
After I started focusing on oral hygiene, I noticed some very tiny black dots on my molars.
Is this normal?
9.
There is a small dark mark on the edge of my lower right last molar (quite noticeable) that has been there for a long time.
I have seen two different clinics, and neither dentist addressed it.
One clinic took X-rays and said I didn’t have cavities, while the other didn’t take X-rays and after two visits, the dentist also didn’t mention cavities.
I don’t drink tea, so it shouldn’t be tea stains.
When I scrape it with a toothpick, it feels a bit indented; I’m not sure if it’s a cavity or just the natural shape of my tooth since I’ve never scraped that area before.

10.
Since I started paying attention to dental hygiene, I’ve felt some soreness in my tooth gaps when lying down to sleep three days later.
After brushing my teeth, it feels better (could this be psychological, or did I injure my gums by cleaning too vigorously?).

11.
Is going to bed early and having a regular routine good for my teeth and gums? Will it affect wisdom tooth extraction?
12.
I am currently hesitant to eat anything because I’m worried it might harm my teeth.
Will an unbalanced diet affect my teeth and gums, and will it be bad for wisdom tooth extraction?
13.
Is it bad or good to brush my teeth immediately after meals? I’ve seen conflicting information online.

14.
Is it better to brush my teeth immediately after waking up or after breakfast?
I apologize for bothering the doctor with such a long message.
I am genuinely worried about my dental health and have been confused by various online articles and videos about dental hygiene.
T-T

An, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/06

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: 1.
Please use according to the product instructions.
2.
A physical examination by a physician is necessary to know for sure.
3.
5 to 10 minutes is quite normal.
4.
Bass brushing technique.
6.
It is recommended to extract teeth in stages.
Wait until the wound has healed before proceeding with further extractions.
7.
Try to use dental floss as much as possible.
8.
A differential diagnosis with dental caries is necessary to determine the condition.
9.
If both doctors have examined you, it is advisable to relax.
10.
Psychological factors are predominant; attention is focused on the teeth.
11.
Yes, it is possible.
12.
Please maintain a balanced diet.
13.
Rinse your mouth with water before brushing, and start brushing only after ensuring there are no large food particles left.
14.
Both are acceptable.
If there is free time after breakfast, it is best to clean again.

Reply Date: 2021/10/06

More Info

Understanding black and gray stains on teeth can be quite concerning, especially when they appear suddenly. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for these stains, and I will address your questions and concerns in detail.

Causes of Black and Gray Stains
1. Food and Drink Stains: Certain foods and beverages, particularly those high in tannins (like coffee, tea, and red wine), can lead to staining. If you have recently changed your diet or consumed more staining foods, this could be a factor.

2. Plaque and Tartar Buildup: If oral hygiene practices have been inconsistent, plaque can accumulate and harden into tartar, which may appear dark or discolored. This can happen even if you have been brushing regularly, especially if you missed brushing after meals.

3. Toothpaste and Oral Hygiene Products: Some whitening or abrasive toothpaste can cause wear on the enamel, leading to discoloration. If you switched to a new toothpaste, it might be worth considering whether it is too abrasive for your teeth.

4. Gum Disease: If you have experienced bleeding gums, this could indicate gingivitis or periodontal disease, which can also lead to discoloration at the gum line.

5. Cavity Formation: Even if you are not experiencing pain, cavities can develop and may present as dark spots. It’s crucial to have these evaluated by a dentist.

Addressing Your Concerns
1. Stain Removal: Professional dental cleaning (scaling and polishing) can effectively remove surface stains and tartar. If the stains are deeper, your dentist may recommend additional treatments.

2. Brushing Technique: The method you use to brush your teeth is essential. The most recommended technique is the Bass method, which involves placing the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and using gentle circular motions. Brushing for at least two minutes is ideal, but be cautious not to over-brush, as this can lead to gum recession.

3. Use of Mouthwash: Mouthwash can be beneficial for maintaining oral hygiene, but it is generally recommended to use it once or twice daily rather than excessively. Overuse can lead to dry mouth or other issues.

4. Dry Mouth and Oral Membrane: The white or transparent film you are experiencing could be related to dry mouth, which can be exacerbated by certain toothpaste or mouthwashes. Staying hydrated and possibly using a saliva substitute can help.

5. Electric Toothbrush Use: Using an electric toothbrush for more than two minutes occasionally should not harm your teeth, but it’s essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions. If you feel uncomfortable, a soft-bristled manual toothbrush is a good alternative.

6. Wisdom Tooth Extraction: The duration and pain level of wisdom tooth extraction can vary. Generally, the procedure is quick, and local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort. Post-operative pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications.

7. Flossing: Dental floss is often more effective than floss picks for cleaning between teeth. However, if you find floss picks easier to use, they can be a suitable alternative.

8. Small Black Dots: Small black dots on teeth can be normal, especially if they are not associated with pain or sensitivity. However, if they persist, it’s advisable to consult a dentist.

9. Acid Sensitivity: If you experience sensitivity after cleaning, it could be due to over-brushing or gum irritation. Adjusting your technique may alleviate this.

10. Sleep and Oral Health: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can positively impact overall health, including oral health. Stress and fatigue can lead to neglecting oral hygiene.

11. Diet and Nutrition: A balanced diet is crucial for oral health. Nutritional deficiencies can affect gum health and healing post-extraction.

12. Brushing After Meals: It’s generally recommended to wait at least 30 minutes after eating before brushing, especially after consuming acidic foods, to prevent enamel erosion.

13. Morning vs. Post-Breakfast Brushing: Brushing in the morning helps remove plaque that accumulates overnight, while brushing after breakfast can help eliminate food particles. Choose the method that fits your routine best.

Conclusion
It’s understandable to feel anxious about your dental health, especially with the conflicting information available online. Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining oral health, and if you notice any persistent changes, it’s crucial to consult a dentist for a thorough examination. They can provide personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits, is key to preventing issues in the future.

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