Tooth, abnormal colors

Alternative names:

discolored teeth; tooth discoloration

Definition:

Coloration of teeth that is other than the white to yellowish-white of normal teeth.

Considerations:

Tooth discoloration can be caused by many different factors that influence the formation of the enamel or that can cause the staining of enamel. Discoloration may be uniform or appear as spots or lines in the enamel. Discolored areas may also have a different density and porosity than normal enamel.

Factors influencing tooth color include genetic, congenital, metabolic, chemical, infectious and environmental. Inherited diseases may influence the thickness of enamel or the calcium or protein content of the enamel. Metabolic diseases may cause both abnormalities of color and shape. Drugs and medications can cause changes in both the color and hardness of the enamel.

Common causes:

• high fever at an age when tooth formation is taking place
• poor dental hygiene
• tetracycline given before the age of 8 years
• excessive fluoride either from environmental sources (natural high water fluoride levels) or from excessive administration (fluoride applications, rinses, toothpaste, and fluoride supplements taken by mouth)
• neonatal jaundice (severe)
• porphyria
• amelogenesis imperfecta (and dentinogenesis imperfecta)
• eating or drinking foods (or fluids) that temporarily stain the teeth, like tea or coffee

Note: There may be other causes of abnormal tooth color. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for abnormal tooth color, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.