Black Chromogenic Stains on Teeth: Microbial Etiology, Pathogenic Mechanisms, Clinical Characteristics, and Current Evidence Based Treatment Strategies: A Narrative Review

Tooth discoloration is one of the most commonly encountered complaints in the dental setting. Extrinsic stains on the tooth surface brought on by a result of bacterial metabolism are known as chromogenic stains. Black chromogenic stains in particular affect both pediatric and adult demographics. A wide range of microbial ecological habitat is responsible for these stains, particularly those belonging to actinomyces groups. Several observational studies have described that the presence of chromogenic stains can translate into anticariogenic effects. While time tested Ultrasonic scaling can get rid of these stains, they are known to recur. Currently probiotics, anti-microbial photodynamic therapy are under evaluation. This paper aims to provide a narrative review of chromogenic stains