Green Teeth Associated Hyperbilirubinemia in Primary Dentition

Abstract

There are many reasons for tooth discoloration. An increase in the bilirubin level may cause tooth discolorations. Such cases are rare, but most involve tooth discoloration with a greenish hue.

The purpose of this case report is to describe green discoloration of the primary dentition in the presence of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. 2 boys aged 16 and 22-months presented with chief complaints of erupting teeth of abnormal color. Their primary teeth exhibited a greenish discoloration along enamel hypoplasia. Both patients were born prematurely with a low birth weight and had been diagnosed with neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

Systematic diseases can affect the hard tissue of teeth during their formation and result in changes in tooth color. Periodic follow-ups are required for establishing a normal dental condition and meeting the esthetic needs of patients. A pediatric dentist may be the first person to observe patients with discoloration in their primary dentition. In such cases the dentist can deduce the systematic disease responsible for this discoloration.