Extrinsic discoloration of teeth

The majority of tooth discolorations are extrinsic in nature and appear as brown integuments. Various clinical indices and photometric techniques have been used for the evaluation of extrinsic discolorations. Smoking, tea or coffee consumption and increasing age are promoting factors and such discolorations are frequently seen in connection with oral use of antibacterial plaque-inhibiting mouthrinses. Chemical alteration of the acquired pellicle appears to be the major reason for these brown integuments.