Colors in Tooth Discoloration: A New Classification and Literature Review (pp. 17-28)
Authors: Hamed Mortazavi, Maryam Baharvand, and Amin Khodadoustan
Abstract: Purpose: There has been a recent increasing interest in the management of dental staining as shown by the large number of tooth whitening materials appearing in the market. The aim of this review is to search the literature regarding tooth discoloration in order to introduce a new classification in terms of different clinical colors.
Methods: The PubMed database was searched for articles pertaining to the topic between the year 1932 and 2012. The search strategy for PubMed based on MeSH terms was: “tooth discoloration”, OR “tooth discolorations”, OR “tooth diseases”, OR “tooth bleaching”.
Results: Based on the relevant evidence, it was shown that tooth discoloration can be found in nine different color spectrums: black, brown, blue, green, grey, orange, pink, red, and yellow. Each color may represent various origins, which needs further investigations to be revealed.
Clinical significance: Our new classification based on clinical features of discolored teeth helps clinicians achieve timely diagnosis and avoid inappropriate therapeutic measures.