Trauma and the pulp
A blow to the tooth can damage the pulp. The tooth darkens due to bleeding within the tissue or necrosis. This may happen without pain at first.
Other causes of colour change
Plaque and tartar, resorption in cats, internal infections. An X-ray shows the condition of the root.
- Post-traumatic darkening
- Resorption (in cats)
- Root infection
The vet's approach
Root canal treatment, monitoring, or extraction — it depends on the X-ray and clinical condition. Without diagnostics, any conclusion is premature.
When to see a vet
- A tooth has changed colour after an impact or without an obvious cause
- The darkening is accompanied by swelling or odour
- The pet avoids chewing on the side of the affected tooth
What not to do at home
- Don't ignore darkening "because it doesn't hurt"
- Don't wait until swelling appears
- Don't decide on treatment without an X-ray
Frequently asked questions
Not always, but it needs assessing. An X-ray shows the condition of the pulp and root.
Whitening isn't treatment. The cause of the colour change needs to be addressed.
Sources and professional guidelines
- WSAVA Global Dental GuidelinesГлобальні настанови з ветеринарної стоматології
- AAHA Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and CatsКлінічні настанови з дентального догляду