What dental issue is described by the presence of white stains on teeth?

The presence of white stains on teeth is most commonly associated with fluorosis. Fluorosis occurs due to excessive intake of fluoride during the early years of tooth development, leading to changes in the enamel's appearance. These changes manifest as white spots or streaks on the teeth. The enamel may retain its structural integrity but appear discolored, which is a hallmark sign of fluorosis.

While caries, or dental cavities, do present with visual changes on the tooth surface, they typically start with demineralization that can appear as white spots but progresses to brown or darker areas as decay advances. Erosion is characterized by the wear and thinning of enamel due to acids, leading to a different visual appearance than fluorosis. Staining from food can cause discoloration but doesn't usually present as defined white stains; it tends to lead to yellow or brown coloration depending on the substances that cause the staining. Therefore, the description of white stains on teeth is most accurately aligned with fluorosis.