If you’ve looked in the mirror and wondered “what are those white spots on my teeth?” don’t worry, you’re not alone. There are various reasons for these discolored or white patches and the best way to treat them is to make an appointment to see your dentist.
What Causes White Spots on Teeth?
There are several factors that could be causing these white spots and some are easier to treat than others:
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Tooth decay
Poor oral hygiene will cause an increase in bacteria in your mouth. This bacteria builds up to form plaque, a sticky layer which will attack your teeth, causing noticeable white spots.
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Poor diet
What you eat and drink can affect the way your teeth look. Sugary or acidic foods and drinks will wear away at your enamel, leading to white or discolored spots on your teeth. A diet lacking in calcium will also lead to weaker enamel and visible white spots.
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Fluorosis
This is a condition caused by consuming too much fluoride, whether from fluoridated drinks, supplements, or ingesting too much toothpaste. Generally it’s seen in young children while their teeth are developing. Fluorosis is harmless but may cause unsightly white spots on your teeth.
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Enamel Hypoplasia
This also generally only occurs in young children with developing teeth but it’s a condition where not enough enamel is produced. People with enamel hypoplasia are at a much higher risk for tooth decay and a patchy look to their teeth.
Can White Spots on Teeth be Treated?
It is possible to get rid of white spots on your teeth – here are the most common treatments:
- Enamel microabrasion can gently remove a thin layer of enamel, effectively filing off the white spots and making your teeth look like new.
- Tooth bleaching or whitening can lighten and brighten your teeth, making the white spots less obvious.
- For badly spotted or discolored teeth, dental veneers might be the best option. These thin layers of porcelain are affixed to the front surface of a tooth, giving it a perfect appearance.
Can I Prevent My Teeth From Getting White Spots?
If you’re worried about getting white spots on your teeth, there are some things you can do to prevent them from forming.
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Improve your oral hygiene routine
Brushing twice daily and flossing at least once per day is the best thing you can do to remove bacteria from your mouth after eating and drinking and to prevent tooth decay. -
Change the way you eat and drink
Increasing the amount of calcium in your diet will help strengthen your tooth enamel. Calcium is found in dairy products, chia seeds, oily fish, almonds and leafy greens, to name a few. If you are a fan of drinking sugary juices or soda, try using a straw to minimize the contact of the liquid with your teeth. -
Keep an eye on your kids
Make sure your children are brushing their teeth twice a day, for the recommended two minutes per time. This is important to get them started on a good track with their oral health. Also ensure that they are spitting out their toothpaste and not ingesting it, as this may result in fluorosis which can cause white spots to develop on their teeth.
If you have any questions or concerns about the appearance of your teeth, speak to your dentist to find the best solution for you.
