Tetracycline Stains

 Tetracycline and other dark stains are problems that have negative impacts on people’s lives. People with teeth darkened by tetracycline will find ways to cover their mouth with almost anything to keep from having to smile in public.  Tetracycline is an antibiotic that is used by doctors for killing bacteria. Although a good product, it also has a property that is not so good.  Bone and teeth that are being developed when the antibiotic is being given becomes darkened. This happens in varying degrees with people.  Years ago, it was common to use different composite materials to cover up the effects of tetracycline and other types of dark stains. Over the years however, we have acquired newer and different approaches to help patients with this type of stain problem.  The whitening processes that we have available now can, in many instances, allow us to change the color of teeth without having to do any restorations at all. The different whitening processes are helpful with these types of cases.