What is the most common extrinsic stain?

The most common extrinsic stain is yellow stain. This type of stain typically occurs due to a variety of dietary choices and habits, particularly the consumption of certain foods and beverages that are rich in pigment, such as curry, mustard, or those containing coloring agents. Additionally, factors like poor oral hygiene can contribute to yellowing of the teeth, as plaque can accumulate and develop discolored deposits.

Yellow stain is significant in dental hygiene because it can often be a precursor to more serious stains and conditions if proper oral hygiene practices are not maintained. It can be relatively easy to remove through professional cleaning and effective brushing techniques, making its presence quite common among individuals.

In contrast, while green stain, brown stain, and black line stain do exist and can occur in various populations, they are less prevalent compared to yellow stain. Green stain often correlates with poor oral hygiene and is more frequently seen in children, while brown stain can arise from tobacco use or certain medications. Black line stain is typically associated with specific types of bacteria and is generally less common than yellow stain. Thus, in the context of prevalence among stains, yellow stain stands out as the most common extrinsic type.