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Dentistry/Tooth darkening

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Question
A couple of weeks ago my friend accidentally hit the front of my mouth with his knee. I didn't bleed but my front tooth felt loose and it hurt for a long time. It still hurts a little and I've noticed it has darken a bit. Should i have it checked? I'm worried that it might be dying.

Answer
Hi Mayra

Yes - get it checked out. You are right, the nerve could be dying and may need treatment.

This is quite a common type of injury, and unfortunately it is impossible to predict whether or not the nerve dies, but the darkening you are seeing is one possible indicator that it is.

Regards

Tony Appleton

Dentistry

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Tony Appleton BDS DPDS

Expertise

I am an experienced general dental practitioner in private dental practice. I have worked for the past 25 or so years in the UK, and own a busy practice in Stratford upon Avon, Stratford Dental. From early 2012 my wife and I moved to Canberra, Australia, where I have taken up the position of Lead Dentist in a large city-centre practice. I will happily answer questions related to general practice, and have interests in endodontics (root canal), dental implants, CEREC/E4D cad-cam dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.

Experience

I have been a general dental practitioner for over 25 years, working initially under the NHS, but since 2001 have been solely in private practice. I run a busy practice with my wife, Lisa, who is also a dentist. I have also been closely involved in the training of young dentists, and have lectured to dentists on a variety of subjects, both clinical and managerial, related to general dental practice.

Organizations

Church Street Dental Practice

Stratford Dental

Modern Dentistry

British Dental Association



Publications

British Dental Journal

Cancer Treatment Reviews



Education/Credentials
BDS Sheffield 1986 DPDS Bristol 2001

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