What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Teeth Discoloration

What is Stained Teeth? (Definition/Background Information)

• Stained Teeth occurs due to factors such as poor oral hygiene, smoking, eating or drinking certain foods, age-related factors, etc. The condition is also known as Teeth Discoloration
• The outer layers of tooth are hard and consist of two components - enamel (the outermost layer) and dentin (the inner layer). Usually, the discolored portion of teeth is its enamel, although in some cases, the dentin may also be affected
• The teeth usually get stained from the outside (when the enamel is affected); when tiny microscopic pores or cracks are affected. However, it may be also stained from the inside, when the dentin is involved
• The treatment of Stained Teeth involves undertaking professional teeth whitening procedures and adequate oral hygiene and care. With appropriate treatment, the prognosis of Stained Teeth is typically excellent

Who gets Stained Teeth? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Any individual of any age may get Stained Teeth. It is a common condition seen in both children and adults
• Both males and females are affected
• Racial, ethnic, or geographical predominance is not observed

What are the Risk Factors for Stained Teeth? (Predisposing Factors)

There are several risk factors for Stained Teeth and some of these include:

• Food and lifestyle habits (without adequate dental care) that include drinking tea, coffee, wine (especially red wine), carbonated drinks, sweetened color drinks, certain fruit juices (beetroot, blueberries, raspberries, etc.), nicotine (smoking or chewing tobacco), curries with turmeric, brightly-colored candies and sweets
• Use of certain medications
• Tetracycline antibiotic medication administered to pregnant women during or after the second trimester, or administered to children before the age of 8 years
• Aging causes a gradual loss of the natural shine and brightness of teeth; the enamel is worn out and the dentin is stained
• Trauma to teeth that causes an internal hemorrhage
• Certain underlying conditions including dentinogenesis imperfecta that causes Teeth Discoloration (grey, yellow, violet)
• Radiation therapy to the head and neck region, or chemotherapy, may cause Teeth Discoloration
• Some dental cavity filling materials (such as silver amalgam) may corrode over time and cause change of tooth color

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Stained Teeth? (Etiology)

Stained Teeth may be caused by a variety of factors called extrinsic or intrinsic factors.

• When the stain is on the outside surface affecting the tooth enamel, it is due to extrinsic factors, such as due to certain food and drinks, including chewing or smoking tobacco
• When yellowing of the inner dentin is noted, it is generally due to intrinsic factors, such as injury to teeth, the effect of a medication, or an underlying medical condition
• In the case of extrinsic factors, good dental hygiene (regular brushing and cleaning) can help prevent Stained Teeth to a good extent. Whereas, if it is caused by an intrinsic factor, then it is important to address the underlying condition causing Stained Teeth
• Also the type of teeth one has (determined by one’s genes) dictates the color of teeth. Some have smoother teeth, while others have rougher surfaces, thereby making it more vulnerable to discoloration

It is important to note that tea stains are much worse than coffee stains. Also, lemonade, soda drinks, and white wine increase the susceptibility of teeth to staining.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Stained Teeth?

The signs and symptoms of Stained Teeth can vary from one individual to another. It may include:

• Presence of yellow, brown, gray stains on teeth (one or more tooth may be affected)
• Pits, patches, or streaks on teeth
• Symptoms of an underlying condition may be noted, if any

How is Stained Teeth Diagnosed?

A Stained Teeth is diagnosed using the following methods:

• A complete physical examination of the mouth and teeth. Typically, a visual identification is sufficient to diagnose Stained Teeth
• Assessment of medical history including the presence of any underlying conditions, medicines one is currently taking, food and lifestyle habits, etc.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Stained Teeth?

Complications due to Stained Teeth may include:

• Cosmetic issues and emotional stress
• Reduced self-esteem

How is Stained Teeth Treated?

The treatment for Stained Teeth depends on the severity of the condition, whether one or more tooth is affected, and the location of the tooth. The treatment options include:

• Undertake professional teeth cleaning
• Dental professional assisted teeth whitening procedures (using bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide) that may be done at the clinic or home (under supervision of the dental healthcare provider)
• Use of dental veneers (porcelain or resin) or crowns to mask the discolored tooth
• Undertake treatment for any tooth decay, gum disease including root canal treatment, if necessary

How can Stained Teeth be Prevented?

The following measures may be considered to prevent Stained Teeth, in some cases:

• Follow good oral hygiene and care: Daily brushing (twice or after meals) using soft-bristled toothbrushes and flossing to prevent buildup of plaque
• Avoid drinking beverages (tea and coffee) continuously throughout the day
• Use straws for fizzy drinks, also wash mouth after having such drinks
• Undertake early and adequate treatment of disorders that increase risk for Stained Teeth
• Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco including chewing betel nut leaves
• Use dentist-approved toothpastes and oral rinses (including any whitening products); avoid OTC stain-removal products, unless supervised by a dental healthcare expert
• Exposing young children to fluoride toothpastes may cause Teeth Discoloration, since the enamel is not fully formed. Check with dentists prior to usage of any fluoride-based dental products
• Visit a dental hygienist regularly to have teeth cleaned professionally

What is the Prognosis of Stained Teeth? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• With suitable treatment the prognosis of Stained Teeth is typically excellent
• However, extrinsic stains are much easier to remove than intrinsic stains. Also, the time duration to remove them is generally shorter

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Stained Teeth:

Please visit our Dental Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/dental-health/