Brilliantly white teeth are found in most children. However, some kids may have unexplainable stains that may appear slightly yellow, brown, gray or even orange. There are a number of reasons as to why it can be so when they become discolored. In any case, most issues can be corrected, the coloring can be a clue as to the cause of the coloration. With this in mind, the most common reasons as to why your child’s teeth may be discolored or stained is what we at Smile Reef would like to share today.
Poor Oral Hygiene
The discoloration of your child’s teeth might be shades of yellow, or even orange, which is likely due to a buildup of plaque. This is an indication the child is not brushing their teeth, or not brushing their teeth well enough. If the plaque is not eventually cleaned, it can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. If you are noticing that your child’s teeth are brushed well, and the yellow or orange stains still develop, use a smear of adult toothpaste to scrub their teeth well. Children’s toothpaste is not always adequate. To prevent the stains, it might be good to have them use adult toothpaste every 3 days or so. Another alternative is to mix baking soda with water. You may need to make an appointment with your child’s dentist to schedule a professional cleaning if the stains persist.
Iron Can Cause Teeth Discoloration
Like the iron in Vitamin A for instance, dark stains on your child’s teeth can be caused from iron. A small percentage of kids can get their teeth stained from iron. You may need to have your child brush their teeth more regularly, should you notice dark stains. Even with a professional cleaner working on it, it can be challenging to eliminate them once the dark stains develop. The stains caused by iron do not harm the overall health of your kids’ teeth, though the dark stains do not look great aesthetically. Ask your child’s dentists about options.
Trauma to the Mouth
Taking a ball or puck to the mouth for example, discolored teeth in your child can be the result of an injury as well, such by a fall or an accident. It cannot be removed with a professional cleaning since the stain derived from trauma is actually developed inside the tooth. Be sure to discuss your options with your child’s dentist.
Medical Conditions Can Cause Stained Teeth
Due to some medical conditions or medications, a child’s teeth can also become discolored. In the event your child has a history of high fevers or chronic illnesses, takes specific medications, or has over exposure to long term use of fluoride at a young age, the teeth can become permanently discolored.
Pediatric Dentistry
Contact Smile Reef today for your next appointment. We can assess the situation and offer optimal solutions if you are concerned about any discoloration of your child’s teeth.
