Dental problems in children can start surprisingly early, as teeth begin to form in the second trimester of pregnancy, according to the Nemours Foundation. The foundation notes that at birth, babies have 20 formed teeth in the jaw. Establishing good dental habits early and maintaining dental hygiene can help prevent or minimize tooth discoloration in children.
Early Causes
Baby teeth range in hue between off-white and ivory, notes the Mayo Clinic. However, mothers who took tetracycline while pregnant may have babies with discolored teeth. Babies who experienced jaundice as newborns may have teeth with a greenish tint, once the teeth appear. Infants with serious health conditions such as hepatitis, heart disease or widespread infections may also develop discolored teeth. Injuries to the gum line or teeth can give teeth a pink or gray tint.
Feeding
Tooth discoloration often results from tooth decay due to bad feeding habits. Parents or caregivers may allow young children to fall asleep with bottles or while nursing, which allows sugars to remain on the teeth and harm the enamel. The resulting tooth decay can spread across the enamel and ultimately into the tooth pulp underneath. Parents should not rely on fluoridated tap water as a substitute for proper dental hygiene. Long-term use of vitamins or antibiotics can also lead to discoloration.
Prevention
Adults should limit the time young children are allowed to suck on bottles or straws, as this can lead to cavities on the front teeth, according to the Nemours Foundation. After feedings, adults may run a clean, damp washcloth over the gums to remove bacteria. Around age 2 or 3, when children have all their baby teeth and are able to spit, adults may help children brush using a fluoride toothpaste. However, adults should ensure children brush thoroughly and use only a pea-size bit of toothpaste, as inadequate brushing and excessive fluoride intake can both lead to tooth discoloration. The American Academy of Pediatrics also recommends avoiding sodas and limiting exposure to foods that can stain teeth, such as soy sauce, grape juice and sugary fruit drinks.
Professional Assessment
When a child turns 1, visit to the dentist is in order, according to the American Dental Association. Dentists can explain dental hygiene and begin to assess the formation of the teeth in the jaw. Fluoride treatments usually aren't offered until all the teeth have come in, usually at age 2½. Pediatric dentists can assess the degree of tooth discoloration and the need for cleaning procedures. In a worst-case scenario, a dentist may recommend pulling teeth with severe cavities.
Treatment
When insufficient brushing is the cause of tooth discoloration, more careful brushing using a soft-bristled brush may be helpful, notes the Mayo Clinic. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns that the effects of tooth-whitening pastes on children have not been studied and that their use may result in increased tooth sensitivity. The academy recommends avoiding professional tooth-whitening procedures until all of the adult teeth are in place. For older children, dentists can apply sealants to the teeth, preventing the accumulation of bacteria. These sealants last several years.
