Your root canal treatment was performed successfully, and your damaged tooth was saved. In most cases, the problem has been solved, and the tooth doesn't require any further attention—beyond at-home dental care, of course. So why has the tooth in question started to turn grey weeks (or even months) after the root canal has been performed? A grey tooth after a root canal is a reasonably common dilemma. There are two key reasons why it can happen, along with a few different options to correct the discolouration.
Dental Materials Used in the Root Canal
For some patients, the materials used to perform the root canal can result in the tooth taking on a grey colour in the subsequent months. Some of the dental cement powders used in the procedure contain demeclocycline hydrochloride and triamcinolone acetonide. These active ingredients can result in tooth discolouration after the procedure has been completed, although this won't be the case for everyone.
Blood Flow to the Tooth
The root canal removed the tooth's pulp (its internal nerve). This eliminated blood flow to the tooth, which was the intention of the procedure. In saving the tooth, this lack of blood flow can result in the tooth losing its white sheen after the root canal. Although the tooth has remained strong and intact, it may look unhealthy. Whether it was the dental materials used or a lack of blood flow, this grey colour cannot be reversed at home, so don't be tempted to bleach your teeth in an effort to correct the discolouration.
Correcting a Single Grey Tooth
A dentist can easily treat an individual grey tooth, although treatment involves covering up the tooth, as the natural colour of its surface enamel cannot be adjusted enough to make a difference. Treatment is cosmetic, and your dentist may suggest applying a veneer to cover the tooth. Alternatively, a composite bonding agent can be applied, adding a wafer-thin layer of tooth-coloured resin to the tooth to change its appearance. The best treatment will depend on the location of the tooth and the extent of discolouration. Dental restorations can be more vulnerable to staining, so some dietary considerations might be needed, along with being sure to maintain a high standard of at-home dental care.
Remember that a single grey tooth won't respond to whitening treatment, and dental intervention will be needed. Fortunately, this intervention isn't intensive and your tooth can quickly be made to match its neighbours. Contact a dentist to learn more about your options.
Share