You may wonder about the color of your baby’s teeth. Enamel is the outer layer of our teeth. It is the hardest part of the tooth, and also the layer that provides most of the color of the tooth. Your baby’s teeth do not have to be perfectly bright white in order to be healthy, and in fact are generally an off-white or ivory color. Discoloration from these shades can be the result of many things:
- Bacteria buildup—The most common cause of a change in color is lack of proper brushing or cleaning, leading to buildup of bacteria and plaque that gathers stain from food and drinks. This can be solved by regular professional dental cleanings and improved home care.
- Tetracycline use during pregnancy
- Injuries to the teeth
- Recurring high fever
- Jaundice
- A few rare conditions that can affect the structure of your baby’s teeth
If you notice any dramatic discolorations in your child’s teeth, please make an appointment for your child to see a dentist.
