Stains on children's teeth can be white, black, brown or yellow, and each colour usually has a different cause. Not all of them are decay: some are enamel defects and others are simple stains that can be removed at the clinic. The important thing is to have them assessed by a paediatric dentist to find out what they are.
What Each Colour of Stain Means
| Colour | Most common cause | Should you see a dentist? |
|---|---|---|
| Opaque white, next to the gum | Early decay (demineralisation) | Yes, as soon as possible: it can be stopped |
| White or yellowish, on permanent molars and incisors | Molar-incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) | Yes, the enamel is more fragile |
| White, in fine streaks | Mild fluorosis | At the regular check-up |
| Black line, next to the gum | Extrinsic staining from bacteria or iron | Yes, it's cleaned at the clinic |
| Brown or black, in a cavity | Advanced decay | Yes, soon |
| Grey or dark, on a single tooth | Previous knock | Yes, to check the nerve |
White Spots on Teeth
These are the most common and can have three main causes:
- Early decay: a matt white spot near the gum usually means the enamel is losing minerals. At this stage decay can be stopped with fluoride and better hygiene, without the need for a filling.
- Molar-incisor hypomineralisation (MIH): white, yellow or brown patches on the 6-year molars and sometimes on the incisors. The enamel formed with defects and is more sensitive and fragile.
- Fluorosis: white streaks or flecks caused by too much fluoride while the tooth was forming, for example from swallowing a lot of toothpaste when very young. It's usually mild and purely cosmetic.
At wiloo, we specialise in children's dental health. Find out how we work in paediatric dentistry and prevention.
Black Stains That Aren't Decay
A line of black dots along the gum, on several teeth at once, is usually extrinsic staining. It's caused by specific bacteria in the mouth or by some iron supplements. It isn't decay, it doesn't damage the tooth and it's usually linked to a lower risk of decay.
It doesn't come off with normal brushing, but it's easily removed with a clean at the clinic. It may come back over time.
Brown or Yellow Stains
If the brown stain is in a hole or in the grooves of the molars, it may be decay that has already progressed. A tooth that darkens after a knock may indicate that the nerve has been affected. In both cases it's best to have it checked soon.
Can They Be Removed? Treatments
- Early decay: in-clinic fluoride, better brushing and less sugar.
- MIH: protection with fluoride, sealants or restorations depending on severity.
- Black staining: professional cleaning.
- Advanced decay: a filling or other treatment.
Avoid whitening products, bicarbonate of soda or home remedies in children: they can damage the enamel and don't address the cause.
When to See a Paediatric Dentist
For any new stain, especially if it changes size, if your child is sensitive to cold or if the stain appears after a knock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are white spots caused by a lack of calcium?
Usually not. The common causes are early decay, an enamel defect or too much fluoride. Taking more calcium won't remove them.
Will more brushing get rid of them?
Black staining doesn't come off with normal brushing, and neither do enamel spots. Good brushing does help to stop early decay, though.
Do stains on baby teeth carry over to permanent teeth?
Not directly, but decay or a knock to a baby tooth can affect the permanent tooth forming underneath. That's why they're worth checking.
Have questions about your child’s dental health?
Come and meet us at our clinics in Terrassa, Girona, Torrent and Vic. Your first visit is free.
