Toddler Tooth Discoloration: What Causes it and How Can You Prevent It?

Toddlers can have tooth discoloration for many reasons. The most common causes of tooth discoloration are poor cleaning habits, certain vitamins (especially iron), germs and certain foods. Most discoloration can be cleaned off with baking soda and water or adult toothpaste. A dentist can generally remove stains that do not disappear using these methods. Teaching children how to brush early is extremely important.

Some discoloration or staining of teeth can occur because of early tooth decay or traumatic injury. Children who have chronic illness, suffer recurrent fevers, and take long-term medications can have discoloration of their baby and/or adult teeth. The cells that make enamel are sensitive to disturbances such as illness and medication during tooth development. These stains are on the inside of the tooth and cannot be cleaned off. In this case, dental therapy may be needed to improve the appearance to the teeth.

Prevention is important. You can prevent discoloration of teeth by caring for teeth at an early age; preventative care can help to avoid serious problems later in life. Teach your toddler proper brushing techniques. Encourage him to brush his teeth on his own. Be there to provide assistance when needed. If you need to do it for him make sure you stand in back of your child and lean his head back into your lap and brush with small strokes. This procedure should be done at least twice a day.

Some children are fussy about having their teeth cleaned; here are some suggestions to help you make brushing teeth a positive experience for your child:

Let him pick out his own toothbrush. If he is using something he likes it is more appealing to brush. Let him brush his own teeth and don't worry too much about technique, just get him in the habit of brushing.

Ask for assistance from your spouse or another authority figure like your dentist if you are not finding anything that works for your child.

Suggest to your child that he brush his teddy bear's teeth. By using an object to learn the task it will demonstrate the importance of brushing.