What is the source of tetracycline stains on teeth?

The source of tetracycline stains on teeth is indeed related to the use of tetracycline during tooth development. When tetracycline antibiotics are administered to children whose teeth are still developing, the antibiotic can become incorporated into the developing teeth. This incorporation can lead to intrinsic stains, manifesting as a yellow, gray, or brown color on the teeth, depending on the timing and dosage of the medication.

Tetracycline has a unique property that allows it to bind with calcium ions, which are abundant in the tooth structure. As a result, when young patients take tetracycline, the drugs can affect the enamel and dentin formation, leading to permanent discoloration. This critical aspect of drug effects on dental development underscores the importance of carefully considering medication use in pediatric dentistry, especially during critical periods of tooth formation.

In contrast, other sources of tooth discoloration, such as high fluoride concentrations, dietary factors, or poor oral hygiene practices, do not share this direct and specific relationship with intrinsic staining from medication usage. These other options can contribute to extrinsic staining or surface discoloration rather than intrinsic, developmental-related stains like those caused by tetracycline.