Intrinsic vs Extrinsic Teeth Staining
And What it Has to do With Tetracycline Teeth
Tetracycline teeth staining is considered intrinsic teeth staining. It is important to know the difference between extrinsic and intrinsic teeth staining. The two first letters of each word is an indication of its meaning. Extrinsic means stains are on the exterior (outside) of the tooth and intrinsic means stains are on the interior (inside) of the tooth.
Extrinsic teeth staining or discoloration is often a result of smoking, coffee and tea, chewing tobacco, foods and even dental plaque. Extrinsic teeth staining happens just by engaging in daily habits and consuming foods. It does not carry a lasting or lifetime sentence. Regularly scheduled dental cleanings, exams and visits with your dentist will remove extrinsic teeth staining. Also, the array of whitening products are effective in the removal of extrinsic teeth staining.
As mentioned above, the stains from tetracycline occurred within the dentin of the tooth. This deep rooted staining began in the early growth and development at the onset of the adult teeth. Tetracycline antibiotics were given to children and pregnant women without patient warning labels or package inserts. The side effects caused its users to suffer with intrinsic teeth staining and harsh discoloration. Horribly, it has a lifetime and lasting effect. It became a smile deformity.
Victims of intrinsic teeth staining can hope for extensive and costly dental work, such as bonding, veneers, caps, crowns, clip-on veneers, implants and ultimately dentures. Often many victims can never afford these available options. Preparing victim’s teeth for capping or crowning often sets off other serious dental risks such as root canals and extractions. This is the “price you pay” even if you could afford the thousands of dollars for professional dental work. In addition, intrinsic teeth staining does not respond to over the counter whitening products. (Source)