Intrinsic and extrinsic discoloration of the dentition. (A literature review)

Many physical and chemical agents are capable of producing discoloration of the dentition. These discolorations have been described as being either intrinsic or extrinsic in nature. Intrinsic stains are those affecting the internal calcified tissues of the teeth while extrinsic stains result from the deposition of a film, pigment, or calculus on the surface of enamel, exposed dentin, or cementum. Stains of both the extrinsic and intrinsic varieties have been described and their respective etiologic agents discussed.