Polka dots might be fashionable, but finding white spots on teeth isn’t exactly haute couture. In fact, any kind of spots, lesions, or marks arising on your pearly whites should be taken as a serious warning sign. After all, if left untreated, you could risk losing your teeth once and for all.
What Causes White Spots on Teeth?
There are multiple reasons why flecks of discoloration appear on your teeth. Sometimes, the marks are merely stains that can be polished away with a little deep cleaning. In other cases, it could signify how weak your tooth’s enamel is. However, before going on to seek treatment, it’s essential to know what you’re dealing with. Here are some of the causes behind those pesky white spots on your teeth:
1. Enamel Hypoplasia
Unfortunately, you cannot control when the effects of enamel hypoplasia start to show. This is because it is a hereditary condition. One that causes the enamel on your teeth to be thinner than normal. Despite being a natural tooth defect, enamel hypoplasia can also arise from vitamin deficiencies, preterm birth, and dental trauma. Moreover, if proper care is not taken, it can even lead to heightened tooth sensitivity and tooth decay.
2. Demineralization
When the enamel in your teeth starts to decalcify, it leads to demineralization. This happens due to long-term bacteria buildup in your mouth, along with the loss of minerals. Demineralization is an early sign of a dental cavity taking root. When spotted, it’s best to visit a dentist as soon as you can, or your tooth might begin rotting.
3. Fluorosis
Accidentally ingesting large amounts of fluoride is the biggest reason white spots appear on your teeth. Whether it’s by drinking water with a high fluoride count or by accidentally swallowing toothpaste, fluorosis is a dangerous condition. It can give way to severe tooth discoloration. Soon you’ll notice the white spots turn yellow before changing to brown and then finally black. Even though fluoride is good for you, having too much of it can lead to disastrous results.
Treatment Options
Thankfully, you can treat the marks on your teeth in many different ways. As long as they’re white and only slightly discolored, sometimes the effects can be reversed. Depending on the nature of your condition and the severity, your dentist might suggest one of the following treatments:
- Enamel Microabrasion
- Ceramic Veneers
- Teeth Whitening
- Dental Crowns
- Professional Teeth Cleaning
- Topical Fluoride Treatment
How to Prevent White Spots on Teeth
No one wants their pearly whites to get stained or damaged. Thus, if you want to prevent spots on your teeth, you can follow the prevention tips mentioned below:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
- Limit Your Fluoride Intake & Usage
- Floss Regularly
- Composite Resin
- Eat a Healthy & Balanced Diet
- Avoid Eating Sugary Foods
What’s The Bottom Line?
To conclude, white spots on teeth can signal your tooth’s enamel is in danger. Whether it’s due to an early onset of a cavity or a genetic condition, it’s better to let a dental professional take a look at it. If you’ve found similar specks of discoloration on your teeth and want to get it checked out, contact Village Park Family, Orthodontics & Wellness Center at (281) 376-4444.