What Causes White Spots on Teeth?
White spots on teeth can be caused by various factors such as excessive fluoride exposure, vitamin deficiencies, infections or diseases, dental injuries, poor dental hygiene, dental hypoplasia, and a diet high in sugary or acidic foods and drinks, as well as plaque accumulation, dry mouth, and others.
Types of White Stains on Teeth
Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride can cause fluorosis, which can lead to white spots on teeth. Excess fluoride levels in drinking water, consuming fluoride toothpaste, and certain fluoride supplements can lead to overexposure. Too much fluoride can cause dental damage and tooth discoloration, showing up as small white, yellow, or brown spots on teeth. Fluorosis often affects children and results from excess fluoride exposure.
Decalcification: Demineralization or decalcification refers to the process where essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus are stripped from teeth due to acids produced by bacteria. This bacterial activity deteriorates the enamel, resulting in unattractive white spots on your teeth. Therefore, these white areas caused by demineralization can be a sign of potential tooth decay.
Plaque accumulation: Lack of oral hygiene can cause bacteria to build up, which leads to plaque. The acidic conditions in the mouth create a suitable environment for bacteria to grow, which can weaken and damage the enamel. When enamel is damaged, it can wear away more easily, leading to the development of white or yellowish-brown spots on the teeth.
Diet: Not getting enough calcium in your diet can cause dental problems, such as white spots on your teeth. Calcium is important for keeping teeth strong, so not getting enough of it can lead to weaker enamel and a higher chance of discoloration. Including foods high in calcium, such as leafy greens and almonds, may decrease the chances of these white spots appearing.
Enamel hypoplasia: Hypoplasia is a condition that involves inadequate development of enamel. Turner’s tooth mainly affects children, though it can also happen in adults. This condition can happen for several reasons, such as poor nutrition, maternal smoking during pregnancy, and premature birth. Some drugs, especially antibiotics, can interfere with nutrient absorption in the body, which can influence the development of tooth enamel in the mouth.
Treatment
There are different methods to treat white spots on teeth. The success of these treatments probably depends on the underlying cause of the discoloration and the general condition of an individual’s tooth surface.
1. Enamel microabrasion
Certain individuals might qualify for microabrasion as a solution for their white spots. During this procedure, a dental professional removes a small layer of enamel from the teeth to reduce the appearance of these spots.
This specific procedure is often combined with teeth bleaching to improve the evenness of tooth color.
2. Teeth whitening or bleaching
Teeth whitening or bleaching can reduce the appearance of white patches and different types of discoloration. You can find many over-the-counter (OTC) teeth whitening products, such as strips and gels. People can also buy these products from online stores.
Individuals who have white spots may also consider visiting a dentist for specialized whitening procedures. Professional treatments usually use stronger bleaching agents than over-the-counter options, which may increase their effectiveness.
3. Dental veneer
Dental veneers are thin layers that are attached to the front surfaces of a person’s teeth. They are quite effective at hiding white spots and various imperfections.
Dental veneers can only be obtained through a dental professional and require expert installation. This often ends up costing a bit more.
4. Topical fluoride
A dental professional might use topical fluoride on the teeth of individuals suffering from enamel hypoplasia. This treatment can support enamel growth and assist in preventing tooth decay.
5. Composite resin.
People with enamel hypoplasia may find it helpful for a dentist to use composite resin to treat cavities and reinforce the outer layer of their teeth. This method might not be the best option for patients with many white spots on their teeth.
Prevention
To avoid issues with demineralization, it’s important to brush and floss your teeth regularly. After eating and drinking, rinse your mouth with water and swish it around to neutralize the acids. It’s best to avoid frequent snacking or drinking anything other than water throughout the day.
Monitor the amount of toothpaste your children use to reduce excess fluoride. A small amount the size of a pea should be applied to their toothbrush. Always watch over your children while they brush their teeth, and ensure that they spit out the toothpaste without swallowing it.
At our dental clinic, we can evaluate your teeth, determine the causes of any discoloration, and offer a customized treatment plan.