“Precaution: Antibiotics Can Stain?”

Posted by drgracesun on July 1, 2009 under General Dental Knowledge, Healthy Smile, Information | Be the First to Comment

Antibiotics help us fight infections, however certain antibiotic medication could dim your smile! When taking antibiotic medications, it is important to realize that these types of medications not only eliminate harmful bacteria, but also affect the body by disturbing the balance of our gastrointestinal system. Sometimes the chemical components of antibiotic meds can leave deposits in the hard tissues of the oral cavity , like in the tooth and bone, affecting the color of the teeth.

It has been well established that commonly prescribed antibiotics like tetracyline, if taken during the second half of the pregnancy can affect the future teeth of the fetus. Children younger than eight years old with prescription tetracycline (for treating ear infections) can have seriously discolored teeth as well from chemical deposits on the inner layer of the tooth structure (dentin), causing grayish brown bands that are not so easy to correct. Discoloration is usually a consequence of the chemicals affecting the developing stage of the teeth. If any discoloration is noticed in a child with primary teeth, promptly speak with your doctor or dental professional! Review the child’s history to determine whether the discoloration could possibly be associated with any medications, diet or even drinking water. Discoloration of erupted permanent teeth has also been proven to result from antibiotic use, as discussed in an earlier edition of the Journal of the American Dental Association. Although this is fairly rare, discoloration can happen to nearly anyone taking tetracycline, erythromycin, minocycline, or rinses containing chlorhexidine antiseptic solution. Keep your dental professional informed as to your antibiotic regiment.

In Kentucky, a 25-year-old woman whose teeth were gray-streaked from use of antibiotics was highlighted in a study completed by Frederick M. Parkins, D.D.S., of the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. The patient took two years of tetracycline therapy for teenage acne. She had been taking minocycline (brand name Minocin), a synthetic form of tetracycline and now has very discolored teeth (see above picture). Thankfully, only about 3-6% of adult antibiotic users will experience tooth-staining. Discoloration can develop as early as one month after the antibiotic regiment begins, but the staining could take years to appear!

Prevention is always the best solution – avoid teeth staining medications. If staining does occur, speak with your dental professional about options to whiten affected teeth. Procedures such as in-office or take-home whitening and bleaching will be the first conservative treatment option available to you before porcelain veneers or bonding procedures, which work well at masking over discolored areas of teeth.