Discolored Teeth
What is a Discolored Tooth?
A discolored tooth in a dog or cat is often one of the first visible signs that something is wrong beneath the surface. Healthy teeth are typically white or slightly off-white, so when a tooth appears gray, purple, pink, or tan, it usually indicates previous trauma to the tooth. This can occur from chewing on hard objects, catching a toy at the wrong angle, or other everyday activities. Even if your pet seems to be acting normal, a change in tooth color is not cosmetic, but it is a medical concern that should be evaluated.
Why Teeth Become Discolored?
A discolored tooth means that the inner portion of the tooth (the pulp), which contains nerves and blood supply, has been damaged. When this happens, the tooth loses its vitality and becomes “dead.” Studies and clinical experience show that a discolored tooth has a greater than 90% chance of being non-vital. Once the tooth is no longer alive, it cannot heal on its own. Instead, bacteria can enter the tooth and travel to the root, where they can cause a serious, painful infection.
Symptoms and Treatments
Over time, this infection often leads to a tooth root abscess at the tip of the root. This can be painful and may cause swelling under the eye, along the jaw, or inside the mouth, though some pets show very subtle signs. Even in the absence of obvious symptoms, the infection is still present and can worsen if left untreated. The good news is that with proper diagnosis and treatment, such as root canal therapy or extraction, the source of pain and infection can be effectively resolved, restoring your pet’s comfort and health.
Contact
Address: 774 Maleta Ln, Castle Rock, CO 80108
Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday 7 AM to 5 PM
Phone: 720-307-4923