We often associate healthy teeth with a pearly white appearance. However, there are instances where teeth exhibit discolouration that cannot be simply cleaned away, as the staining originates from within the tooth itself. This phenomenon is known as intrinsic staining.
Characteristics of Intrinsically Stained Teeth
Intrinsically stained teeth may present with unusual colours, such as pink, blue, black, or grey. The discolouration can affect a small area of the crown, or it may extend throughout the entire visible portion of the tooth.
Causes of Intrinsic Staining
The discolouration is a result of changes occurring within the tooth structure. The tooth’s crown is normally covered by a layer of enamel, a tough material that, while appearing solid white, is slightly translucent. Beneath the enamel lies dentine, the main substance of the tooth, which is off-white in color. Dentine is composed of millions of dentinal tubules—small tubes that run from the enamel to the internal pulp of the tooth. The intrinsic staining occurs when material, in this case, blood, is forced up the tubules and becomes visible through the enamel.
Trauma and Bruising
Intrinsically stained teeth are often associated with trauma. Similar to how the body develops a bruise elsewhere, a traumatized tooth can also exhibit changes. Blood from the damaged pulp is pushed up the dentinal tubules, resulting in a pink hue if detected early after the trauma. Over time, the blood undergoes colour changes and may eventually appear black.
Treatment Options for Dead Teeth
Regrettably, the majority of teeth displaying internal discolouration are dead. Dead teeth pose potential issues for affected pets, necessitating appropriate treatment. Veterinary Dentists typically offer two choices for treating dead teeth:
- Root Canal Therapy: In this procedure, the necrotic material is removed, leaving the hard parts of the tooth intact.
- Extraction: The entire tooth, including the dead pulp, is removed.
Importance of Veterinary Examination
The discovery of a discoloured tooth warrants a thorough examination and discussion with a Veterinary Dentist. Early intervention and appropriate treatment choices are crucial for maintaining the overall oral health and well-being of your pet.