Ask an Expert: Stained teeth in toddlers

Dental Hygiene

Stained teeth in toddlers
07/31/2007

Question:

MY 2 1/2 YEAR OLD GRANDSON HAS A LOT OF STAINED TEETH ONLY ON THE TOP. CAN WE GIVE HIM SOMETHING OR IS HE LACKING SOMETHING?

Answer:

It's really hard to know without an examination. Staining can be external (on the outside of the tooth structure) or internal (inside the tooth structure). External stains are most frequently caused by foods or other dietary habits. However, internal stains can be caused by many different things:

something that my have happened in utero before he was born

it could be from meds he has taken

from a high fever

from a fall when he bumped this teeth

or even tooth decay.

I would suggest you see a dentist. Some of the possibilities I mentioned need treatment and others should be followed or watched. Since he is only 2, I would suggest taking him to a pediatric dentist. They have the most experience with young children and can help to make his first dental visit a fun one.

If I can be of any further assistance, please don't hesitate to ask!

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Response by:

Susan Bauchmoyer, RDH, EFDA, MS
Associate Professor – Clinical, Clinic Director
College of Dentistry
The Ohio State University