Finding a gray tooth in a dogs mouth can be an unexpected and concerning finding. Gray teeth are secondary to intrinsic or internal discoloration within the pulp cavity. Here are some possible causes:
Possible Causes of a Gray Tooth in Dogs
- Trauma, specifically concussive trauma: Enamel is part of the tooth and is the outer layer of the tooth above the gumline. It is also the hardest tissue in the body, even harder than bone. If your dog has bitten down on something hard or suffered a concussive contact impact, the tooth may have significant internal damage called pulpitis, leading to discoloration. Most pulpitis cases in dogs are irreversible, meaning they will not resolve on their own OR with antibiotic therapy.
- Pulpitis: Inflammation inside the tooth (pulpitis) can turn the tooth pink, purple, or gray. This condition is often irreversible and painful.
- Nonvital (dead) Tooth: Over 92.7% of discolored teeth in dogs are nonvital (dead), meaning the pulp inside has died, often due to injury or infection.
- Plaque & Tartar: A buildup of plaque and tartar can cause external discoloration, though this usually appears yellow or brown rather than gray.
Treatment Options for Nonvital Teeth
A nonvital tooth requires treatment to eliminate pain or infection. The incisor teeth and canine (fang) teeth are the most common teeth affected. Non-vital teeth are treated with root canal therapy or surgical extraction therapy. General anesthesia and dental imaging are needed for both treatment options.
- Root Canal Therapy: This procedure removes the damaged pulp inside the tooth, cleans and disinfects the canal, and fills it to prevent bacteria from re-entering. It allows the dog to keep the tooth while eliminating pain and infection risk. Root canal therapy is the preferred option to allow the tooth structure to remain and continue to contribute to oral function, such as grasping and oral play.
- Surgical Extraction: If the tooth is severely damaged or infected, surgical removal may be the best option. Unfortunately, surgical removal is forever, as dental implants are not presently a viable therapy.
Diagnosing a Discolored Tooth in Dogs
The first step in evaluating a discolored tooth or teeth begins with the anesthetized oral exam. Dogs have 42 teeth, and each one must be evaluated. Approximately 60% of the tooth structure is under the gumline, making dental imaging an imperative component of a detailed oral exam. Dental radiographs and cone beam CT imaging are both utilized for the best treatment options and determining long-term prognosis.
Veterinary Dental Help for Your Dog in Bozeman
If you have noticed a discolored tooth in your dog’s mouth, we would be happy to see you for a consultation exam appointment to determine what is the best plan for moving forward. If your primary care veterinarian identifies a discolored tooth on exam, they most often will refer to a veterinary dental specialist to discuss what will be the best treatment option for your canine friend.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (06/19/2025) Photo by Fox on Unsplash