[Dental Health] What are the reasons for black stains on children's teeth?
Many parents may have noticed unexplained black stains on their children's teeth. Some parents may assume it's due to improper brushing, or think that diligent brushing will remove them. But what exactly are these black stains? Let a doctor clear up this mystery for parents!
What are the black stains on a child's teeth?
Parents might assume it's a cavity, but it might not be.
The black stains on a child's teeth may actually be a different kind of staining. The human mouth contains many bacteria, and if actinomycetes become a dominant species, the hydrogen sulfide produced by them comes into contact with iron compounds in saliva, producing iron sulfide. Over time, this can form black spots or lines on a child's teeth.
How to distinguish between black stains and cavities?
Black stains caused by actinomycetes will only accumulate on the surface of the teeth and form small, discontinuous dots or lines, leaving the teeth smooth. In contrast, cavities will make teeth uneven or form noticeable holes, and the black stains from cavities are usually continuous. If parents are unsure about their child's dental condition, they can seek further assistance from a dentist.
How should you treat baby teeth that already have black stains?
It would be recommended to have a dentist examine the tooth first to confirm that the black stains are caused by actinomycetes and not cavities. If it is determined to be a common tooth stain problem rather than cavities, parents do not need to worry too much.
While brushing and regular dental cleaning won't remove black stains from teeth, the types of bacteria in the mouth change as we age. Once children's permanent teeth fall out, the amount of bacteria and stains will naturally decrease. For baby teeth with existing stains, care is the same as for normal teeth: regular brushing and fluoride toothpaste.
Unless you are overly concerned about the appearance of your teeth, black stains on the tooth surface will not cause other dental problems or diseases. If you are concerned about the appearance of your teeth, you can go to a dentist to have the stains polished and removed.
How can we minimize the appearance of black stains in our daily lives?
Brush your teeth 2 to 3 times daily to eliminate bacteria that cause stains to accumulate in the mouth. Use toothpaste containing sodium pyrophosphate to reduce black stains caused by actinomycetes. Children over 6 years old can use mouthwash briefly to alter the bacterial composition.
Author: Dr. Chen Haoxian
