The 101 on Discoloured Teeth in Children

As a parent, there’s nothing more concerning than your child’s dental health. Discoloured teeth can be a common issue in children and can cause anxiety for parents.

In this article, we’ll address the pain point of discoloured teeth in children and offer solutions to help prevent it.

Why are my child’s teeth discoloured?

Discoloured teeth can be a cause of concern for parents, but it is a common problem many children face. When children do not brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar build-up on their teeth, which can lead to yellow or brown stains.

Injury or trauma to the teeth can also cause discolouration. For example, if a child falls or gets hit in the mouth, it can damage the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels, leading to discolouration.

Certain medications or illnesses can be a contributing factor too. For instance, antibiotics like tetracycline and doxycycline, when given during tooth development, can cause yellow or brown stains on the teeth. Similarly, illnesses like jaundice or high fever can also lead to tooth discolouration.

Additionally, weak enamel can cause teeth to appear yellow, while excessive fluoride intake can lead to white spots or streaks on the teeth.

There are several types of tooth discolouration that can occur in children, including the following:

Extrinsic discolouration

It is caused by external factors such as improper oral hygiene, food, and drink stains, or tobacco use.

Intrinsic discolouration

It occurs inside the tooth and can be caused by injury, medication, or illness.

Fluorosis

This discolouration is caused by excessive fluoride consumption and can result in white spots or streaks on the teeth.

Enamel hypoplasia

It is caused by weak enamel and can result in yellow or brown discolouration.

Tetracycline staining

This type of intrinsic discolouration is caused by certain antibiotics given during childhood.

Prevention and care

Regular children’s dental checkups can catch any potential issues early on. Schedule a dental appointment every six months to keep a check on the child’s oral health.

Your kid’s dental cleaning is also crucial to remove any plaque and tartar build-up, which can cause tooth discolouration.

Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks to help prevent tooth decay and discolouration. Encourage children to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and dairy products to promote strong and healthy teeth.

Children should brush their teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste. For adults and children, brushing for at least two minutes is recommended. Parents should supervise brushing until children are old enough to do it correctly on their own.

What to avoid?

Avoiding certain foods and habits can help prevent tooth discolouration and maintain your kid’s oral care. Sweets, cakes, and cookies with coloured icing contain high amounts of sugar and artificial dyes, which can lead to tooth decay and staining. Dark-coloured juices can also cause tooth discolouration if consumed in excess.

Bottle feeding with sugary sodas or artificially coloured juices, or pacifiers dipped in sugar, or honey can also cause tooth decay and discolouration.

Parents should refrain from overnight bottle feeding, as prolonged exposure to sugary liquids can cause tooth decay.

Sharing utensils, straws, or food can also increase the risk of tooth decay and the spread of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

Parents should avoid using over-the-counter whitening products or oral hygiene products that offer whitening effects. These products can be harsh and cause damage to the tooth enamel, leading to further tooth discolouration and sensitivity.

Good oral health habits established in childhood can lead to a solid foundation of healthy teeth and gums.

Remember, prevention is the key to maintaining good oral health in children. A healthy diet and regular dental check-ups are essential.

By prioritizing your child’s oral health and following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your child has a healthy, confident smile that lasts all seasons.