Gray Teeth Since Childhood
Did your teeth become gray when you were a child? If you had gray teeth when you were little, it could be important to consult with a dental professional to diagnose one of the following health conditions.
Dentinogenesis Imperfecta & Tetracycline Antibiotics: Possible Causes of Gray Teeth
One cause of gray teeth in children is a condition called dentinogenesis imperfecta. This condition is a disorder that impacts tooth development and causes teeth to become discolored and translucent. It also weakens the teeth, putting them at risk for damage, breakage, and loss. This hereditary condition affects an estimated one in every 6,000 to 8,000 people.
Another cause of gray teeth is the use of tetracycline antibiotics in children under the age of 8 or pregnant mothers. Tetracycline is an antibiotic medication designed to fight bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, gonorrhea, acne, rosacea, and others. Because it's now proven to cause significant tooth discoloration and gray teeth, tetracycline is no longer prescribed to young children or pregnant mothers.
No matter the cause of your gray teeth, if you're concerned, consult your dentist. Your dental professional may recommend a wide variety of treatments designed to help whiten gray teeth, giving you every opportunity enjoy a perfect smile in adulthood.
