The term “tetracycline teeth” is used in dentistry to describe tooth enamel pathology that is not associated with tooth decay. This condition is caused by taking antibiotics of the tetracycline group, hence the name.

Tetracycline is a broad spectrum antibiotic and is used for pathologies such as pneumonia, skin infections, some STIs, and dysentery. This antibiotic effectively fights bacterial infections and is a reliable means of controlling severe diseases.

It is worth noting that the pathology of “tetracycline teeth” can occur regardless of the form in which the drug was taken:

  • Ointment;
  • tablets;
  • as a result of ingestion of tetracycline through the blood from mother to child.

Children and adolescents taking tetracycline have the highest risk of tooth enamel pathology. This is due to the fact that the enamel is at the stage of formation and shows greater sensitivity to this antibiotic. Tetracycline affects not only the color of the teeth. Exposure to the antibiotic can also weaken tooth enamel, putting teeth at risk for decay (cavities).

THE EFFECTS OF ANTIBIOTICS ON TOOTH ENAMEL

Tooth discoloration occurs when tetracycline binds to calcium, which is necessary for tooth development. This occurs during the mineralization and calcification process, which results in internal stains on the teeth. That is, the stains develop beneath the surface of the tooth, unlike food or drink stains, which develop on the surface of the tooth.

Under the influence of tetracycline, a child’s teeth turn yellow. However, exposure to sunlight causes discoloration, and the teeth will eventually turn brown or grayish. It is not uncommon to see a greater discoloration of the front teeth. The root teeth (in the back of the mouth) can also change color, but usually not as significantly.

Not every child has the same degree of tooth discoloration. The degree of discoloration depends on:

  • the duration of treatment;
  • dosage;
  • the stage of tooth development at the time of exposure

A child who has had an antibiotic for a long period of time and at higher doses may have a greater degree of tooth discoloration.

Some children have a slight discoloration, perhaps light yellow or light gray teeth. But others may have darker yellow teeth or teeth that look dark blue or dark gray.

HOW TO TREAT TETRACYCLINE TEETH?
Treating tetracycline teeth is a process that requires a comprehensive approach and specialized procedures to fully restore color and strengthen enamel. First of all, diagnostics must be performed to determine the exact cause of the enamel discoloration. Using ultraviolet light, specialists can detect glowing stained areas, which confirms the involvement of tetracycline in the problem.

The first stage of treatment is remineralization, which aims to strengthen the teeth. This is accomplished by introducing minerals such as calcium, fluoride, and phosphorus into the enamel of the teeth.

After remineralization, a fluoridation treatment is recommended, which will help coat the teeth with fluoride varnish. Fluorides that penetrate the tissues of the teeth help fight acids, reduce bacteria metabolism and strengthen the teeth, making them resistant to decay.

For those who have noticeably stained teeth, whitening is recommended. However, it is worth noting that this method is only effective for minor staining. For severely discolored enamel, other techniques such as veneers are effective. Veneers are thin overlays that are placed on the front surface of the teeth. Their peculiarity is that they look like natural teeth and effectively correct all aesthetic flaws.