Tetracycline Tooth Staining — NDEB AFK MCQ

Correct answer: E — Yellow-brown to grey-brown fluorescent bands that correspond to the teeth developing at the time of exposure

Tetracycline antibiotics chelate with calcium ions and are incorporated into developing enamel and dentin during mineralisation. The bound tetracycline initially produces a yellow fluorescent discolouration that darkens to brown or grey over time with light exposure (photochemical oxidation). The pattern of staining corresponds chronologically to the teeth that were actively developing during the period of drug administration. Tetracyclines are contraindicated in pregnancy and in children under 8 years to prevent dental staining and enamel hypoplasia.

Reference: Neville – Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, 4th ed., 2016