|
 There
are many conditions in which children exhibit discolored teeth.
In some instances the discoloration is hereditary in
nature and follows a genetic pattern. Other times teeth grow into the
mouth with light or dark colored defects due to early fevers or
infections which took place during the tooth's growth and
mineralization process.
Sometimes the staining occurs in the outer layers of
the teeth, the enamel. Other times the discoloration is more internal
and affects the dentin underneath the enamel, as is the case with
tetracycline staining.
There are conditions in which many teeth are involved,
as well as circumstances where a discoloration is limited to a single
tooth. A single spot defect is the most usual case affecting newly
erupted permanent teeth, especially the top or bottom front teeth.
Permanent incisors that have brown, yellow or white spots are usually
the result of trauma to the primary teeth many years earlier.
Also, some primary teeth demonstrate a pink
discoloration prior to their falling out. This occurs when the root of
the primary tooth has dissolved away, and the soft tissue within the
tooth can be seen through the translucent enamel.
Some of the discolorations described are more common
than others, but no matter the cause of the staining, pediatric
dentists have methods for treating these cosmetic defects.
Most of the discolorations mentioned so far have to do
with stains that occur internally, that is, within the structure of
the tooth itself. However, the vast numbers of discolorations that
affect children's teeth occur extrinsically, that is, on the outside
of the teeth. Extrinsic stains vary in color and can be related to the
use of prescription vitamins containing iron or the use of other
medication in conjunction with inadequate oral hygiene methods.
Most yellow, brown, orange or green stains associated
with beverages and certain foods, can be removed with proper
toothbrushing at home, or professionally in the dental office. Daily
brushing routines go a long way in preventing the build-up of
extrinsic stains and the production of tartar deposits.
Finally, one of the most important discolorations for
a parent to be aware of is one in which a normally colored tooth
suddenly fades to a dark yellow or gray shade. This color change most
often indicates a recent injury to a tooth. This occurs with both the
primary and permanent teeth and is most frequently seen on one of the
upper front four incisor teeth.
A discoloration of this type, with or without
accompanying pain, can signify an infection occurring within the
tooth. Untreated infections that occur to primary teeth can affect the
health and growth of the permanent tooth developing under the infected
tooth. Therefore, it is important for a dentist to evaluate a
discolored primary tooth as soon as it is noticed. Similarly, a
permanent tooth that suddenly becomes discolored also requires
immediate attention.
Infected teeth can often be saved through the use of
endodontic (root canal) treatment. X-rays are usually required to help
the dentist make a proper diagnosis and to formulate an appropriate
course of action, including the possible need for antibiotic therapy.
In spite of modern dental techniques, there are still times that
infected teeth require extraction.
Dr. Eric Lebowitz is a pediatric dentist specializing
in care for infants, children, and teens. He is in private practice in
Kendall at Tooth Fairy-Land, located near Baptist Hospital. Questions
about this topic can be directed to Dr. Lebowitz at (305) 279-4312.
Dr. Lebowitz has been a resident of Pinecrest for over 20 years.
|
