HomeAnswersDentistryteeth discolorationWhat does black discoloration with a hole on the surface of the tooth indicate?

I have black discoloration on the surface of a molar. Does it need a filling?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At June 16, 2021
Reviewed AtJune 16, 2021

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have black discoloration on the surface of a molar. It feels like a hole when I check with my tongue. Do I need a filling? How soon should it be treated? It is hard to get an appointment due to COVID. Please guide me.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

A hole signifies that you have got caries. You might have food lodgement at the site too. I would suggest you get an X-ray to determine the extent of caries involved, and I will decide whether you need the treatment or not for the time being. Could you please get back to me and specify which tooth is involved? If possible, please send me a picture so that I can guide you appropriately.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you.

It is the first molar on the upper left. I have attached the picture for your reference. Please give your opinion.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have seen the image (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity), and I feel that it is a case of moderate caries. However, before we proceed with the X-ray, which will be difficult during the pandemic, I will need more information regarding the extent of your caries.

Do the following tests (dentists use a probe to do the following test. As you may not have it at home, you can use a spoon):

1) Take a spoon or a fork and face the handle towards your teeth. Gently tap the region with the end of the spoon and check for any pain involved.

2) Now, take two spoons and face the handle towards the tooth, gently shake the tooth and check for any mobility.

Do these tests and report to me as soon as possible. I will help you out with it for the time being if the tests mentioned above are negative.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you.

I bought a mirror set before to see if I could have a look, and it had the probe in it. I have tapped it with the probe, and it is a bit sensitive. The tooth directly below also has a bit of darkness on it. Initially, I thought the upper tooth might have been causing the sensitivity but also getting the same when I tap the lower tooth. I have attached the pictures of both for your reference. Please guide me.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have seen the pictures attached (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). I am afraid we might need to get an X-ray of the upper molar teeth for further investigation as to how deep the caries are. As for the lower teeth, it is just a pit and fissure caries, and you do not need to worry about it. A small sealant application will completely seal off that one.

Coming back to the upper molar, it might be chronic irreversible pulpitis.

I will suggest you take some temporary relief measures till you get the X-rays done:

1) Buy a soft bristles toothbrush (or even extra soft ones will do).

2) Food lodgement will lead to an increase in the progression of caries, so brush that specific region after every meal.

3) Buy white toothpaste, preferably anti-sensitive toothpaste.

4) Use a Chlorhexidine mouthwash (here, the brand name is Rexidine, but anything with the content mentioned earlier would be fine), mix it with water and use it twice after brushing.

5) Try to chew your food on the other side of your mouth, avoiding the affected area.

Visit your local dentist when the cases come down or the pain increases. I hope this was helpful.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Shreehari. K. Unnikrishnan
Dr. Shreehari. K. Unnikrishnan

Dentistry

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