The present article reviews the literature regarding tetracycline staining of the dentition and its esthetic management. A total of 49 articles were identified in the initial search, and 22 articles met the eligibility criteria of this narrative literature review. Tetracycline staining results from its use in children between the ages of 6 months and 6 years, when tooth crowns are formed; the effects are dependent on the dosage, duration of treatment, stage of tooth mineralization, and activity of the mineralization process. Tooth bleaching is always the first treatment option for low-grade cases of tetracycline staining. Restorative procedures are indicated for severe staining. The article also describes the treatment of severe staining affecting the maxillary anterior dentition of a 48-year-old man who reported the systemic administration of tetracycline during childhood. Direct composite resin laminate veneers were proposed to achieve immediate, highly esthetic restorations. A combination of different resinous materials in different shades was applied to meet the needs of the patient. The use of direct composite resin laminate veneers satisfied the functional and esthetic demands of the patient at a lower cost than ceramic materials.
Keywords: composite resin; laminate veneers; tetracycline; tooth discoloration; tooth staining.