White spots on teeth can occur for multiple reasons. They can affect your smile and lower your confidence. Thus, it is better to know the reason for receiving adequate treatment.
Why Do I Have White Spots on Teeth?
Typically, white patches on teeth indicate a mineral loss in the enamel layer. But, this is not always the case. Some common reasons for this condition are:
1. Demineralization
Neglecting your oral hygiene can have severe consequences. Plaque is a sticky film that covers your teeth; upon contact with sugar, it leads to tooth decay. The sugary foods and drinks you enjoy actually feed the harmful bacteria in your mouth, producing acid. This acid can damage your teeth, stripping the enamel layer of minerals. Consequently, it leaves a white mark on your tooth’s surface. If neglected, these white spots on your teeth can turn brown and cause further damage.
2. Fluorosis
Fluoride is good for your teeth, as it helps make them strong. But did you know too much fluoride can leave white spots on your teeth? Children are more susceptible to white patches on teeth due to toothpaste, supplements, and other sources of fluoride. You can get yellow, brown, and white spots due to fluoride exposure. In addition, these marks will stay till adulthood if not treated on time.
3. Enamel Hypoplasia
You might notice see-through tips of teeth. They can indicate enamel hypoplasia, a condition that results in thin or absent tooth enamel. Lack of nutrients, high fever due to an illness, smoking while pregnant, etc., can lead to white spots on your teeth. Enamel hypoplasia can look like white or brown spots on teeth’s surface.
Can You Get Rid of White Spots on Teeth?
Now that you know three possible reasons for tooth discoloration, you might wonder if it is treatable. The treatment depends on the size, quantity, and cause of white spots on teeth. Moreover, your tooth enamel’s condition also helps determine the appropriate treatment method for those white marks. Your dentist might suggest the following to get rid of them:
- Enamel Microabrasion: The dentist reduces the appearance of white marks by removing a small amount of tooth enamel, followed by teeth bleaching to restore your smile.
- Topical Fluoride: Topical fluoride treatment help by preventing tooth decay and encouraging enamel growth. The dentist might suggest this treatment for enamel hypoplasia.
- Veneer: a veneer blends in with the rest of your teeth, hiding any tooth defects like spots.
- Teeth Whitening or Bleaching: getting teeth whitening minimizes any spots and stains that dull your smile. You can use strips or visit your dentist for professional teeth whitening.
- Composite Resin: A dentist might suggest composite resin filling to remove cavities and bond outer tooth enamel.
What Is the Takeaway?
In conclusion, white spots on teeth can indicate a lack of tooth minerals, fluorosis, and enamel hypoplasia. Your dentist can suggest multiple treatment options, depending on the cause. Our Pearland Family Dentistry dental team can help if you have white marks on your teeth, dial 832-649-7344 to get in touch with us.