Why Do I Have White Spots On My Teeth?

Those white spots 

White teeth signify excellent oral health, and some people go to great lengths to keep their smile as white as possible. This includes daily brushing, regular dental cleanings, and teeth whitening products. But sometimes discolorations form as white spots on the teeth.

We've all heard about stained teeth and what can be done to make them whiter. But have you ever heard of white spots on teeth? 

Everyone desires to have white teeth for a bright smile. However, sometimes that desire is truncated by the appearance of small white spots on your teeth that make you feel too self-conscious and ultimately negatively affect your self-esteem.

What are these white spots caused by?

Even if you take excellent care of your teeth by brushing twice daily, flossing, and getting regular dental checkups, white spots may appear on your teeth. 

White spot lesions can be due to fluorosis (overexposure of fluoride to the teeth), enamel hypoplasia (thinner development of tooth enamel), demineralization of tooth enamel, a diet low in calcium, or poor oral hygiene. But the good news is that it is treatable and can be reversed.

This shade of white is different from the rest of the teeth, and some people find it bothersome. It's essential to know the cause of white spots to administer proper treatment and prevent major oral health problems, such as tooth decay and tooth loss, from occurring in the future.  

Different treatment options for white spots on teeth

White stains on teeth may bother some people, but there are several treatment options to remove these stains.

There are several possible treatments for white spots on the teeth. Which one is right for you may depend on the underlying cause of the white spots and the condition of your teeth. 

Microabrasion of the enamel

During this procedure, a dentist removes a small amount of enamel from the teeth using a gentle abrasion to reduce the appearance of white spots. This professional treatment is usually followed by teeth whitening, which can make teeth more uniform in color.

Teeth whitening or bleaching

Teeth whitening or bleaching can help reduce the appearance of white and other stains. Various teeth whitening products, such as strips and paste, are available over the counter.

This process helps to even out the color of tooth enamel. The treatment effectively lightens the entire tooth to match the color of the white spots.

Whitening is not an effective treatment for people who develop white spots on their teeth from excessive fluoride use. This treatment can further bleach the white stains, resulting in the colors taking on a different shade of white.

Dental veneers

Depending on the extent of the white spots, your doctor may suggest hiding them with a porcelain veneer. Dental veneers are thin, protective coverings bonded to the front surface of a person's teeth. 

Dental veneers can only be purchased from a dentist and must be placed by a professional. They can hide white spots and other imperfections very effectively. This can make them expensive.

Topical fluoride

The dentist can apply topical fluoride to the teeth of people with enamel hypoplasia. This can promote the development of enamel on the teeth and help prevent decay.

Composite resin

For people with enamel hypoplasia, the dentist may apply composite resin to fill cavities and bond the outer enamel of the teeth. This may not be appropriate if you have many white spots on your teeth.

Ways to Prevent White Stains on Teeth

Practicing good oral hygiene will always be the surest way to prevent most oral health problems, including white spots on teeth. There are also other helpful tips to avoid them; among them are:

• Practicing good dental hygiene, including regular flossing and rinsing. If possible, brush your mouth after every meal. 
• Make sure water is fluoride-free. 
• Helping children, especially those under six, brush their teeth to ensure they use the right amounts of toothpaste and don't swallow it.
• Reduce sugary and acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and juices, candy, soft drinks, and other carbonated beverages. 
• Ensure that braces are thoroughly cleaned, especially around the wires, to avoid white marks on the teeth.
• Quitting smoking can also help prevent the white spots appearance on teeth.

Your trusted dentists in Chandler, AZ

Anyone concerned about white spots on their teeth should visit their dentist for an examination. Your dentist may recommend interventions, such as professional whitening or veneers, to bring your teeth to a more uniform color.

To discuss any white spots on your teeth, contact our professionals at Perfect Smiles Dentistry, where various dental services are available for you and your family. Our offices offer the most professional dental care services in Chandler, AZ. 

At our dental clinic, we can examine your teeth, determine the cause of white spots, and offer a treatment plan. Call our office at (480) 701-8364 to schedule your dental checkup