It is clear that tooth discoloration has a multifactorial etiology, manifested as a result of complex physciochemical interaction between chromogens and tooth substance. In the management of patient with tooth discoloration such information is valuable in the decision-making process when considering whether or not to treat a condition, or refer on to a specialist for an opinion or for treatment.Prevention of avoidable cause of tooth staining is important; the general dental practitioner may be able to offer advice to medical colleagues when alternative therapy is available. A grasp of the pathological processes involved in tooth staining can assist in explaining the cause to anxious or concerned parents.Knowledge of the physiological process involved in shade taking will enable dentists to communicate better with technical staff and also involve the patient in the shade taking process. When recommending or prescribing oral care products known to cause staining. It is important towarn patients of such potential side effects.