Tooth Discoloration: Treatment and Prevention—Part II

Background: Evidence that human dentition differs from normal dentition is the noticeable difference in tooth color, leading people to seek treatment.Tooth discoloration varies widely in appearance, location, severity, and treatment.Aim: Tooth discoloration is a common dental finding associated with clinical and esthetic problems, affecting both children and adults.The purpose of this review is to provide up-to-date methods for treating and preventing tooth discoloration.Review results: Depending on the cause, tooth discoloration is mainly classified into extrinsic, intrinsic, a combination of both, and intercategory types (Part I).There are many whitening/bleaching products available with varying in concentrations, application techniques, and levels of success.These include over-the-counter (OTC), at-home bleaching using a custom tray with carbamide peroxide gel, and in-office bleaching using concentrated hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) (power bleaching).Treatment of intrinsic discoloration is more complex than extrinsic discoloration.A careful history is essential to determine the type of discoloration and treatment required.Conclusion: Understanding the causes and clinical manifestations of tooth discoloration is important for dentists to make a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.The nature of the condition and ways to prevent it also need to be explained to the patient.Lifestyle changes and good oral hygiene are the best ways to prevent tooth discoloration.Both clinicians and patients need to pursue a range of treatment options to achieve esthetically pleasing results.Some tooth discolorations are irreversible and require veneers, crowns, composite fillings, etc. Clinical significance: Increasing public awareness of the appearance of teeth has led people to seek cosmetic treatments to improve tooth color.This review provides comprehensive treatment options and preventive measures based on the cause and type of tooth discoloration.