White spot lesions on teeth are a widespread problem that can impact the overall look of your smile. The lesions, which tend to show up as tiny, white spots or patches on the enamel, can be irritating and raise concerns for many. Thankfully, there are numerous options for removing white spots from teeth, treating them effectively, and restoring your smile to its original radiance. In this blog, we are going to discover what white spots on teeth are, what causes them, and the best treatments for them in order to eliminate them.
What Are White Spot Lesions?
These lesions are referred to as white spots, and they are areas on the enamel where minerals have been lost and mostly show a lack of calcium. Such spots may indicate an initial stage for the tooth to start decaying or may develop for other reasons, such as poor oral hygiene, diet, or genetics. They may develop at the front of your teeth, in line with the gums, or between your teeth. If left untreated, the spot will soon worsen and lead to cavities; thus, early treatment is warranted.
Causes of White Spot Lesions
There are various reasons why white spot lesions on teeth develop, and some of the common causes include
Poor Oral Hygiene
Lack of proper brushing or flossing can facilitate the buildup of plaque, which results in enamel decay and white spot development.
Food Habits
Sweet and acidic food and beverages are likely to be responsible for causing erosion of the enamel, thereby leading to the development of white spots. Having too many such sweet drinks, such as soda and fruit juice, can make the process work faster.
Fluorosis
Too much exposure to fluoride at the developing stage of teeth can lead to dental fluorosis, which is likely to make white spots appear on the teeth.
Braces
Braces or other orthodontic appliances are more susceptible to white spot lesions since the space around the wires and brackets may be difficult to clean adequately.
How to Treat White Spots On Teeth
There are a variety of ways white spot lesions can be treated, depending on the severity of the spots. Here are some common treatment options:
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is among the most effective treatments for remineralizing enamel and minimizing white spot lesions. The treatment is applied by putting a high-concentration fluoride gel or varnish on the target areas of the teeth, where it replaces the lost minerals and rehardens the enamel. Fluoride treatments can either be achieved in your dentist’s clinic or through fluoride products that your dentist prescribes to be used at home.
Microabrasion
Microabrasion is a cosmetic dental treatment for eliminating surface stains and white spots. It is a method of using a mild abrasive substance to remove the discoloured enamel. Microabrasion can greatly enhance the appearance of white spots and is usually safe for most patients. Microabrasion can be used alone or together with other treatments.
Resin Infiltration
Resin infiltration is a minor, minimally invasive treatment to deal with white spot lesions, particularly early decay-related white spots. In this method, a unique resin is used in the lesion area, which gets through the enamel and also reduces the prominence of the white spots. The resin attaches itself to the tooth and fills in the demineralized tooth, resulting in an even texture.
Veneers Or Bonding
For more severe cases with prominent white spot lesions that cannot be addressed with fluoride and/or microabrasion, dental veneers or bonding can be an option. Veneers are wafer-thin pieces of porcelain or composite material that are placed over the front of your teeth, camouflaging flaws such as white spots. Bonding is the process of placing a tooth-colored resin over the area affected by the spots to cover them and enhance the appearance of the tooth.
Preventing White Spot Lesions
While treatments can help remove or reduce white spot lesions, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to prevent white spots from developing:
Brush and Floss Regularly: Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily will help prevent plaque buildup, which is a major contributor to white spot formation.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste: Fluoride toothpaste helps to remineralize enamel and protect your teeth from decay, reducing the risk of developing white spots.
Limit Sugary Foods And Drinks: Reducing the consumption of sugary and acidic foods can prevent enamel erosion and the formation of white spots.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular checkups with your dentist can help detect early signs of tooth decay and white spot lesions before they become more severe.
Seeking Professional Help
If you are dealing with white spot lesions on your teeth and are unsure of how to treat them, it’s best to consult with a dentist. A dentist in Surrey, such as the team at Dentists of Chimney Heights, can evaluate the condition of your teeth and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs.
By addressing the issue early and seeking professional guidance, you can prevent further damage to your enamel and restore your smile’s appearance.
Erase White Spots! Schedule With Dentists Of Chimney Heights!
White spot lesions on teeth may seem concerning, but with proper treatment and care, they can be effectively managed. Whether you opt for fluoride treatments, microabrasion, resin infiltration, or more advanced procedures, there are solutions available to help restore your smile. If you’re dealing with white spots or want to learn more about how to treat them, consider scheduling a consultation with a dentist near you.
At Dentists of Chimney Heights, we specialize in helping patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. If you’re in need of white spot removal in Surrey, contact us today to discuss your options and take the first step toward restoring your teeth.