What type of stain, found on some children’s teeth, can result from poor hygiene?

The correct answer is green stain. This type of stain is commonly associated with poor oral hygiene and is often seen on the teeth of children. Green stains can occur due to the buildup of chromogenic bacteria or the presence of certain dietary habits that lead to plaque accumulation.

Green stains typically appear as a discolored area on the enamel, usually on the labial surface of anterior teeth. They are often removable with proper dental cleaning and improved oral hygiene practices, emphasizing the need for thorough brushing and regular dental visits.

In contrast, black stains often result from the accumulation of iron in the oral environment, brown stains can be due to dietary causes or tobacco use, and red stains are not commonly associated with dental stain and typically indicate bleeding gums or other issues rather than a stain itself. Understanding the origins of these different stain types is crucial for effective dental hygiene practices.