You can have a green tooth, and it doesn't always mean there is something wrong with it. Teeth come in a variety of colors, and tooth enamel is usually a white or nearly white color, but there are things that can cause a tooth to become darker, like a green, light brown, or even a dark gray or black color.

Why is your tooth green? What can you do about it? How can you keep your tooth from getting green again? Use this guide to assist you so you can make better sense of your odd tooth situation and feel better about your smile.

Why is your tooth green?

There are many reasons why your tooth can be green. Here are some of them.

What you consume

Do you use tobacco or drink dark liquids, like tea, coffee, or dark wine? These things can cause your teeth to look darker, and if you have a porous tooth or a tooth that is naturally discolored because of recent dental work or other treatment, you can have it look green in comparison to others.

Your oral health

Do you brush and floss your teeth regularly? Do you have buildup of bacteria and tartar on your teeth? If you do, your teeth can look darker than they should. Your green tooth can be taken care of by your dentist.

Your genetics

If you have a family history of weak tooth enamel and other dental issues, you can inherit them as well. Sometimes tooth color is genetic, so you can also have a tooth that appears green because of this.

What can you do about it?

The best way to manage a green tooth is to see your dentist. They can help you determine why your tooth is green and they will clean your teeth to see if oral hygiene is part of the issue. If you have any dental disease–causing tooth discoloration, you'll be treated for it.

How can you prevent a green tooth in the future?

Perhaps the best way to ensure that your teeth stay a healthy color and remain in good health is to see a dentist on a regular basis. Regular checkups and cleanings will catch issues — including tooth discoloration — when they are minor and allow you to keep your teeth health in check. If you have questions about your oral health, ask your dentist about them so you can keep your teeth healthy when you aren't in the dentist's chair.

To learn more, contact a dentist.