Pink teeth, also known as "pink tooth of Mummery," can occur due to several reasons, including:
- Internal resorption: This occurs when the inner part of the tooth, including the dentin and pulp, is resorbed or broken down. This can happen due to various factors, such as inflammation or trauma. The pink color is caused by the blood vessels and other soft tissues that replace the resorbed dentin.
- Postmortem changes: Pink teeth can appear in dead individuals, especially in moist environments. This is because the breakdown of red blood cells releases hemoglobin and other serum proteins, which diffuse into the dentin through the dentinal tubules.
- Trauma: Trauma to a tooth can also lead to pink teeth. This is because the injury can damage the blood vessels in the tooth, causing blood to leak into the dentin.
While pink teeth may look concerning, it is important to consult a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Examples of pink teeth:
- A pink spot on the cervical region of a tooth might indicate internal resorption.
- Pink teeth observed in a deceased individual could be a sign of decomposition.
- A pink tooth after a fixed partial denture (FPD) preparation might be related to trauma or inflammation.
