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Warning-sign checks

Tooth - abnormal colors: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Go to emergency care now if swelling makes it difficult to breathe or swallow, spreads toward the eye or neck, or causes significant difficulty opening the mouth.

    A permanent tooth that has been knocked out also needs immediate dental help.

    Hold it by the crown rather than the root, and do not scrub it.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact a dentist promptly after a blow to the mouth, even if the tooth is not painful.

    A tooth that later becomes gray or dark may need assessment of the tissue inside it.

    Seek same-day dental or medical care if discoloration occurs with worsening toothache, fever, pus, a bad taste, or swelling of the gum, face, or jaw.

    These symptoms can occur with a dental infection.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a dental appointment if the change is new, does not brush away, affects one tooth, or comes with pain or sensitivity.

    White, brown, or black spots should also be checked, especially if they are growing or the tooth surface feels rough.

    Discoloration without pain, swelling, fever, or recent injury is usually suitable for a routine dental appointment.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Tooth - abnormal colors. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.