Tetracycline & Medication Stained Teeth
Tetracycline taken as a child, may cause teeth to be intrinsically stained. Tetracycline is a common antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections and acne. The stains appear as a greyish, brownish band of colour along the gingival margin. It is marketed under the brand names Sumycin, Terramycin, Tetracyn, and Panmycin, among others.
Why does medication stain teeth?
Because the pulp of the tooth carries blood, the drug is absorbed by the tooth dentine which causes discolouration especially during the development stage during childhood.This means that medication stains are not on the surface. They are deeper. Good results can be achieved by two treatments of laser teeth whitening approximately 2 weeks apart. |
Tetracycline Stains Before & After
These images are actual clients at Dublin Vitality Center who have had laser teeth whitening for tetracycline stain removal. In the image above the client underwent 2 treatments for the removal of tetracycline 2 weeks apart which achieved a 12 shade difference and evened up the teeth colour dramatically.
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How to Avoid Tetracycline Re-occuring After Laser Teeth Whitening
Industry standards in laser teeth whitening recommend that stains will not re-occur for up to 2 years after treatment. You may wish to take up some new habits which will help extend your white smile for longer;
Tetracycline - ask your GP if there is an alternative medicine which will not cause staining of the teeth to treat your health condition.
Home Whitening Kits - the use of home whitening tray, pens or any product containing Hydrogen Peroxide will help minimise stains from medication occuring.
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