Everyone wants a white smile, right? But having patches that are whiter than the rest of your teeth may not be the look you are going for. In fact, these white spots can stand out just as much as yellow or brown discoloration! Knowing the various causes can help you understand the cosmetic treatments you have available to correct white spots.
Causes of White Spots on Teeth
Although there are numerous causes of white spots, they ultimately lead to the same result: decalcification or demineralization of the enamel. When the phosphorus and calcium in teeth are eroded by acids, only a chalk-colored stain remains on the surface. Unfortunately, white spots can come from several sources.
Certain Medications
Specifically, antibiotics like amoxicillin can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, including calcium. If taken regularly, this medication could deprive your teeth of this essential mineral, resulting in white spots.
Excessive Fluoride
In reasonable amounts, fluoride is perfectly safe and effective at preventing cavities. However, if you regularly swallowed toothpaste as a child or drink too much water from the tap, the excess fluoride can discolor tooth enamel, including white spots, in a condition called fluorosis.
Calcium-Poor Diet
If you don’t consume enough calcium in your diet, your teeth and bones can suffer, possibly leading to white spots in your smile.
Braces
Unless you practice good oral hygiene while you have braces, you could have white spots on your teeth after the brackets and wires are removed.
Sickness
When you get sick, particularly with a high fever, your body’s defense system focuses on fighting the infection, not protecting and reinforcing your teeth. As a result, your teeth may develop white spots while you’re not feeling well.
Treatments for White Spots
Normally, patients who have surface stains on their teeth could undergo whitening treatment, but it sometimes doesn’t work on already white spots! In these special cases, here are some of the available options:
Opalustre Whitening for Fluorosis
Unlike typical whitening solutions, Opalustre is designed to help with stubborn discoloration, specifically from fluorosis. Not a lot of dentists offer this level of whitening, so make sure you find a dentist who does!
Porcelain Veneers
Another easy way to deal with white spots is to simply cover them with lifelike porcelain veneers. These thin shells are much more stain resistant and cannot become demineralized, ensuring a perfectly beautiful, uniformly white smile.
In the end, you may or may not be able to prevent white spots from affecting your teeth, but you don’t have to accept them as part of your smile. With the help of your dentist, you can achieve the natural-looking smile you deserve.
About the Author
Dr. Stephen Boyles is proud to carry on the legacy of excellence set by his father, Dr. Franklin. As a Fellow with the Academy of General Dentistry, Dr. Boyles is among a small group of dentists nationwide who have proven their clinical expertise and dedication. At Boyles General Dentistry & Implant Center, he offers traditional teeth whitening, Opalustre whitening for fluorosis, and veneers. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Boyles, contact the practice online or call 432-685-7011.