Black extrinsic dental pigmentation (“black line” on teeth)
What is it?
Black extrinsic dental pigmentation is a thin, continuous line or sequence of black spots, especially around the gums. In addition, it occurs more often in children’s teeth, between 2-3 years old, but continuous in mixed and permanent dentition in a milder form.
“What are the causes?
So, the causes of dental pigmentation, commonly known as black lines on the teeth, are primarily caused by:
- “Individual microflora – presence of chromogenic bacteria in the mouth – the metabolism of these along with the iron present in saliva, leads to the production of black pigment
- Salivary composition (higher concentration of iron and phosphate ions in saliva.)
- Typically, it is not related to poor tooth brushing; however, in the presence of poor brushing habits, it may appear more rapidly.”
How do I know if the stain is a cavity?
Firstly, black line it is often mistaken with cavities due to its appearance. However, these stains are superficial, adhered to the tooth, without cavities, without symptoms. Unlike cavities there symptoms do do not disappear with just polishing.
Furthermore, if you have any doubts, book an appointment with your dentist so they can diagnose you correctly and establish a follow-up and treatment plan.
To summary, there are studies that this stains indicate less prone to devoloping cavities due to the presence of ions (Ca and Phosphate) in saliva.
Treatment?
In general, these stains usually disappear after following a proper plan with your dentist.
