Many people use a whitening toothpaste to control surface stains on their teeth. But like many people, you may ask yourself: Why do my teeth have white spots? First, it’s important to understand how they got there, how they respond to a standard teeth whitening treatment and how to get rid of them.
What Causes White Spots on Teeth?
There are several 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: White spots show the first signs of cavities, and demineralization is one of the most common ways they develop. This happens when plaque builds up and isn’t removed properly, and the acids cause it to strip minerals from your enamel.
- Hypocalcification: This is caused by overconsumption of acidic foods and drinks, poor oral hygiene, and low calcium intake. 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 leave white marks on your teeth. You’ll know if dehydration is the cause if they disappear within a few hours. Sleeping with your mouth closed (mouth tape) can help stop your mouth from drying out.
- Treating White Spots on Teeth: White spots can result from oral bacteria that can be safely removed during a hygiene visit.
- Braces/Orthodontics: Braces and other orthodontics can trap food between the teeth and the wires, causing white spots to form.
For very stubborn white 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 helps remineralize your teeth. For 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 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 whether you should use 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 a dental professional. Janz Family Dental helps with routine checkups, professional cleanings, and teeth whitening services.
A dental professional will explain 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 more advanced hypocalcification, tend to 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, such as remineralizing toothpaste containing calcium phosphate or fluoride, can help reduce the appearance of white spots over time. Drinking water and improving oral hygiene also help prevent further spots from developing.
