Hi. I have black line on one of my back tooth.... it has been there for around 6 months. It does not hurt or anything however I tried to remove the black thing on it to no avail even though it looks like it can be scraped off. I have not been to a dentist for 8 years and I'm really scared. Is it just tartar or tooth decay? :(
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Black tartar or decay?
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5 UpVoted this answer
There is nothing to fear at the dentist office. Even at 18 years old nothing can happen to you without your consent. A dentist can not initiate any invasive procedures without your permission. Ask your friends and family for a recommendation. Find a kind, competent dentist and start a relationship. You'll be fine. As for whats on your teeth I would let the dentist determine that and the way forward.
You are asking for a commentator to 'guess' what might be wrong, and that is unwise. The patient that hasn't seen a dentist for 8 years (since age 10!) and tries to diagnose and treat herself has already begun a life of poor oral health. Fear is a powerful reason for neglect, and something you must overcome with an understanding provider.
5 UpVoted this answer
You don't have to worry. If there is no pain in the area, that's great news! It's probably just some stain in the groove of your tooth, from old bacteria or plaque that settled there and collected stain from your food over time. I would go see a dentist though. If anything, they'll clean and smooth off the stain and your tooth will be white again! Ask your friends or neighbors about a nice dentist in your area. Believe me, you'll be so glad you took care of this, finally. Good luck!
5 UpVoted this answer
It sounds like it could possibly be tartar or stain. The fact that it does not hurt is a good thing. An examination by a dentist is a good thing. Do not worry. Exams are informational so you can get all of your questions answered, and they are generally not painful. So go see a dentist and find out what the problem is for sure! :)
2 UpVoted this answer
You were a young kid the last time you saw a dentist and some experiences can stay with you. Unfortunately the only way to tell if the dark area is tarter or decay is to see a dentist. Remember to tell the dentist and the staff that you are afraid and they will have patience with you. There are options available such as sedation or all natural NuCalm that can help you relax and make any dental treatment much easier. Don't wait any longer. get checked by a dentist.
1 UpVoted this answer
You must see a dentist. Black line, is usually stain going into micro- cracks in the teeth, but it could be caries also, if it sticks.
Since you have not seen a dentist for many years, it would be a great idea for check up, to make sure your gums are also fine and no cavities exist. The longer you wait, the more worries, and possibly discomfort later on which could have been avoided.
Since you have not seen a dentist for many years, it would be a great idea for check up, to make sure your gums are also fine and no cavities exist. The longer you wait, the more worries, and possibly discomfort later on which could have been avoided.
1 UpVoted this answer
Considering that the black line is localized to one tooth it is more likely to be decay than stain. I would make an appointment with a dentist for a check-up. No need to be afraid, you can find an understanding, gentle dentist in your area.