Can black extrinsic tooth discoloration predict a lower caries score rate in young adults?

The aim of this study was to examine the association between black extrinsic tooth discoloration and caries prevalence in an adult population. This association has been previously shown in children and adolescents but has never been examined in an adult population.

Young adults, aged 18 to 29 years old, were examined for black extrinsic tooth discoloration and caries prevalence. The study group included 110 young adults with black stain; the control group consisted of 170 young adults without black stain. The decayed, missing, or filled teeth (DMFT) index score was determined for each subject. The mean DMFT score was calculated for both groups and compared between groups (independent t test). Multiple logistic regression analysis was applied to identify independent influences (age, pigmentation, gender, and smoking) on DMFT.

Mean DMFT score was 4.2 ± 3.9 for the study group and 5.98 ± 4.8 for the control group, which was statistically significant (P < .001). Mean D score (untreated caries) was 1.6 ± 2.5 (study) and 2.4 ± 3.5 (control) (P < .05). Age had a positive correlation with the DMFT score; however, gender and smoking were negatively correlated.

The association between black stain and reduced rates of dental caries was demonstrated in a young adult population for the first time.