Have you noticed creamy or chalky white spots forming on the surface of your teeth? You might feel unhappy about the way this discoloration disrupts the look of your smile. But these spots also point to damage that could put your oral health at risk.
Your dentist can help you restore your dental health and fix white spots on your teeth. Read on to learn more about how white spots on your teeth can impact both the look and feel of your smile.
Why Do I Have White Spots on My Teeth?
White spots on the surface of teeth can happen because of a condition called hypocalcification. This refers to a decline in calcium in the enamel, the outer layer of the tooth. Since calcium is a major part of the enamel, this points to severe structural damage in teeth.
Because the spots are a form of enamel erosion, you can’t get rid of them with your usual oral hygiene routine. You’ll need help from your dentist to improve your dental health and address these cosmetic concerns.
The spots also mean there’s weak spots in your teeth. Parts where the teeth are vulnerable to other dangers like cavities. Your oral health could be at risk if you suffer from hypocalcification.
How Will My Dentist Treat Hypocalcification?
Because tooth enamel can’t grow back, the goal of treatment is to protect what’s left of your enamel and improve how it looks. Your dentist has several ways to do this, depending on how severe the condition is.
Strengthening the Enamel with Fluoride
The first step is often to strengthen the remaining enamel to prevent the weak spots from getting worse. Your dentist can do this with professional fluoride treatments. During this quick and painless procedure, a high-concentration fluoride gel, foam, or varnish is applied directly to your teeth.
This fluoride is absorbed into the enamel, making it much stronger and more resistant to acid and decay. Think of it like putting a protective shield over your teeth. However, it’s important to know that while fluoride treatments are great for stopping further damage, they won’t make existing white spots disappear.
Improving the Appearance: Cosmetic Solutions
If the white or discolored spots are affecting your confidence, cosmetic treatments can create a brighter smile.
For minor cases, your dentist might suggest Microabrasion. This is a simple procedure where a dentist gently removes a very thin layer of enamel using a mild acid and a fine abrasive. This can often make white spots much less noticeable or remove them entirely.
For more noticeable spots, dental bonding is a great option. In this procedure, your dentist applies a tooth-colored composite resin directly to the affected areas. They then shape and polish the resin so it blends seamlessly with your natural tooth. This is a non-invasive and affordable way to cover the imperfections.
For the most durable and comprehensive solution, your dentist may recommend porcelain veneers. These are thin, custom-made shells that permanently sit on the front surface of your teeth. Veneers completely cover the discoloration, giving you a perfectly even and bright smile. They also create a strong, protective barrier over the weakened enamel. This safeguards your tooth from future damage.
The Most Important Step: Prevention
The best treatment is always prevention. If you or your child are prone to weak enamel, your dentist can provide personalized advice. This might include:
- Using a prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste at home
- Using a prescription-strength mouthwash
- Improving your diet to reduce acidic foods and drinks
- Ensuring excellent oral hygiene to keep plaque from building up on the already vulnerable surfaces
If you’re concerned about weak enamel or white spots on your teeth, the best thing to do is talk to Dr. Goyal. We can examine your teeth to find the cause, and recommend the best treatment plan to strengthen your teeth. Find more healthy oral behaviors by scheduling an appointment online or over the phone at 410-670-8211.