A child with permanently stained teeth reports to the clinic. He was most probably administered:
## **Core Concept**
The question revolves around the side effect of tooth staining, which is associated with certain medications, particularly antibiotics. The key concept here is to identify which antibiotic is known to cause permanent tooth staining.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Tetracycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is known to cause tooth staining, particularly if administered during tooth development (from the fetal stage through about 8 years of age). This staining can be permanent and affects the enamel and dentin of the teeth. The mechanism involves the chelation of calcium ions in teeth, leading to the formation of tetracycline-calcium orthophosphate complexes that bind to tooth structures.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** While certain antihistamines and anticholinergics can cause xerostomia (dry mouth), which might contribute to dental issues, they are not commonly associated with tooth staining.
- **Option B:** Aminoglycosides are a class of antibiotics that can have nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity as side effects but are not commonly associated with tooth staining.
- **Option D:** Penicillins are a broad class of beta-lactam antibiotics and are not typically associated with tooth staining.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that tetracycline-induced tooth staining is most significant when the drug is administered during tooth development. This is a critical consideration in pediatric prescribing.
## **Correct Answer:** . Tetracycline.