Minocycline Tooth Staining

Minocycline is a derivative of the antibiotic drug tetracycline. This drug is prescribed to treat acne, urinary tract infections, gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, tick fever and periodontal disease. Administered orally, minocycline blocks the growth of bacteria by preventing access to their protein supply.

Cause

• Minocycline tooth staining occurs during and after teeth have completely formed and erupted. Proteins found in this drug adhere to iron ions and form insoluble compounds that build up within the tooth tissues to form bluish gray, greenish gray or yellow stains on the teeth.

Risks

• A side effect of minocycline, according to the website Drugs.com, is tooth discoloration. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take this medication as it affects tooth development of the child and can permanently discolor the teeth. Children under 8 years of age should not be given minocycline as it can cause permanent yellowing or graying of the teeth.

Treatment

• According to the website eMedicine.com, dental treatments available for minocycline tooth staining include ultrasonic cleaning, bleaching or tooth whitening. Surgical treatments include enamel microabrasion, dental restorations such as laminate veneers and dental implants.