Many people use a whitening toothpaste to control surface stains on their teeth. But like many people, you may have found yourself asking: Why do my teeth get white spots? In order to answer that, you first need to understand how they got there. Let’s take a look at what those white marks on teeth are and how to get rid of them.
What Causes White Spots on Teeth?
There are a few different reasons your teeth may develop white spots on them:
Fluorosis
Overexposure to fluoride during the first eight years of a person’s life can cause brown or white marks to appear on the teeth. Fluorosis doesn’t affect the health of the teeth and can’t be developed once teeth have erupted from the gum.
Demineralization
Tartar, also known as calculus, can build up on your teeth if plaque isn’t removed properly. This is the first sign of tooth decay.
Hypocalcification
This is caused by overconsumption of acidic foods and drinks and/or poor oral hygiene. The loss of the minerals that make up your tooth enamel can cause white spots to develop on the teeth.
Dehydration
Sleeping with your mouth open can cause white marks to appear on your teeth. You’ll know if dehydration is the cause if they disappear within a few hours. Sleeping with your mouth closed will stop your teeth from drying out.
Treating White Spots on Teeth
It may be tempting to try to remove tartar from your teeth yourself, but don’t do it—you risk damaging your teeth! A dentist at our clinic in West Edmonton will be able to completely remove it safely during a routine cleaning.
For very stubborn or noticeable spots, your dentist or hygienist may suggest microabrasion. This painless procedure involves removing the white spots by very lightly scrubbing them off. Typically, a whitening treatment follows. Your dental professional may also suggest using a toothpaste that aids in remineralizing your teeth. For the most severe cases, crowns and composite veneers can be used to mask the white spots.
Avoiding White Marks On Teeth
You can avoid demineralization and hypocalcification with proper dental hygiene: brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss once a day, and schedule routine checkups and professional cleanings at our Edmonton dental clinic twice a year.
If you’re worried about fluorosis, ask your child’s dentist what you can do to avoid it. Since the water in Edmonton is fluoridated, they may suggest avoiding other drinks that are fortified with fluoride and using a fluoride-free toothpaste. If you mix formula to feed your baby, ask your pediatrician if you should be using non-fluoridated water.
Getting Help Removing White Spots
If you’re still wondering why you have white spots on your teeth, it’s time to call in the professionals. At Janz Family Dental, we can help with routine checkups, professional cleanings, and our teeth whitening services. Our dental professionals will tell you why you have these spots and how to treat them. If you’re looking to brighten your smile, it’s time to call Janz Family Dental to make an appointment.
FAQs
Are white spots on teeth permanent?
It depends on the cause. Some white spots, like those from fluorosis or hypocalcification, may be permanent without treatment. However, others caused by dehydration or early-stage demineralization may fade or be reversible with proper care and remineralization treatments.
Can whitening toothpaste or treatments make white spots worse?
Yes, sometimes. Whitening products can make white spots more noticeable because they whiten the surrounding enamel, increasing the contrast. That’s why it’s important to consult your dentist before starting any whitening regimen if you have white spots.
Are white spots contagious or a sign of infection?
No, white spots themselves aren’t contagious and typically aren’t caused by bacteria. However, they can be an early sign of tooth decay, which is caused by bacterial activity—so it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist to address them.
Can white spots appear after braces come off?
Yes. White spots are a common side effect of poor oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment. Plaque builds up around the brackets, leading to demineralization and visible white marks when the braces are removed.
Is there anything I can do at home to reduce white spots on teeth?
While professional treatment is most effective, some products like remineralizing toothpaste with calcium phosphate or fluoride can help reduce the appearance of white spots over time. Drinking more water and improving oral hygiene also help prevent further spots from developing.
