Tetracycline-induced extrinsic discoloration of the dentition.

Tetracycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, is known to cause intrinsic discoloration of the dentition. A case is being presented of extrinsic discoloration of the teeth associated with the use of this drug. This is believed to be the first such reported case in the literature. Possible mechanisms of how tetracycline may cause extrinsic tooth discoloration are discussed.