White spots on teeth are a result of a variety of reasons. Dental fluorosis, enamel hypoplasia, poor dental hygiene, and eating too many acidic or sugary foods can all be a causing factor for the appearance of white spots on teeth. It is not always a serious problem, but it is important to talk to your dentist about it.
Enamel Hypoplasia
Enamel Hypoplasia occurs when the enamel on the tooth does not form as it should. This condition also only occurs during childhood. It is important to see a dentist because this condition can increase tooth decay.
Other causes of white spots on the teeth include poor dental hygiene, especially when someone is wearing braces, or eating too many acidic or sugary foods.
White Spots After Braces
After months and months of braces, the day has finally arrived – the day the braces come off! It is certain to be a day of celebration! Smile perfection is about to arrive!
But, what happens when the braces come off and there on your brand new beautiful straight smile are white spots. Where did they come from and how can you be rid of them?
White spot lesions, aka demineralization or decalcification, are caused by plaque. Yes, the same plaque that causes cavities. These white spots often show up where brackets and gums make brushing with braces difficult. They’re somewhat common in teenagers with braces, studies show as many as 50 percent of braces wearers have them though they are not caused by braces.
The only way to prevent white spot lesions is by keeping plaque removed from teeth. Fluoride toothpaste, regular brushing, and flossing can help while braces are on to keep teeth free from plaque.
Once the braces are off, how do you repair those white spots? First of all, keep your teeth clean and let your tooth enamel recover with natural oral fluids. In a few months, you should notice improvement and minor white spots should disappear. After six months, fluoride rinses and re-mineralizing toothpaste can help. Bleaching also helps lighten the surrounding enamel, which in turn makes the white spots less apparent. If you have any questions about the white spots on your teeth, call our office; we are here to help!
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