What condition is indicated by white stains on teeth?

The presence of white stains on teeth is often indicative of dental fluorosis. This condition occurs due to excessive fluoride exposure during the early years of tooth development, usually when the child is under the age of eight, which can alter the enamel's structure. The effect of this excess fluoride results in the formation of white spots or streaks on the enamel surface. These stains can vary in severity, from small, barely noticeable spots to larger, more pronounced patches.

In contrast, celiac disease primarily affects the digestive system and may lead to dental issues, but the stains associated with it are not specifically characterized as white spots on the teeth. Dentinogenesis imperfecta is a genetic disorder affecting dentin and may cause teeth to appear discolored but does not specifically result in white stains. Tooth decay, or caries, typically presents as dark spots or cavities rather than white stains. Therefore, the description of white stains aligns most accurately with fluorosis.