Why Do My Teeth Have White Spots?
White spots on the teeth can develop at any time in life, and for many people, they are the source of embarrassment. Your smile is often the first thing that new people notice about you, and while white spots are quite common, large spots can affect your confidence. Fortunately, by identifying some of the most common causes of these white spots, you can prevent them in the future.
Fluorosis
The most common reason for white spots on the teeth is fluorosis. This condition involves excessive fluoride intake, mainly during childhood before the teeth have fully developed. The enamel is damaged, and during the growth process, excessive calcium is released into the tooth. This results in white spots on the enamel and is the reason some people refer to them as calcium deposits.
Acid Reflux
If you suffer from acid reflux, you need to make oral health a priority. Your mouth will be subjected to higher levels of acidity than normal, which can damage the teeth. When the enamel is weakened due to acidity, white spots may develop on the surface.
Hypocalcification
Another cause of these spots on the teeth is a condition known as hypocalcification. This results from the mineral loss in the tooth, making the enamel softer than normal. Yellow stains may also be a symptom of hypocalcification.
Orthodontic Treatment
If you had orthodontic work either as a child or an adult, you may be living with white spots now. While treatments like braces won’t actually cause the white spots, failure to clean your teeth properly while they are on can lead to discoloration. If you currently have braces, be sure to brush and floss properly, taking care to clean the teeth behind the wires. This could reduce the chances of discoloration.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth has a number of causes, including certain prescription medications, smoking, mouth breathing, and underlying medical conditions. Regardless of the cause, white spots on the teeth may result. When your mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva to maintain a desirable pH level, bacteria can attack the teeth. This weakened enamel will make way for white spots and other discolorations.
Plaque Accumulation
Routine brushing and flossing are a necessity to keep the teeth free of plaque. Plaque is constantly building up, and failure to clean your teeth properly will allow it to harden into tartar. This colorless, sticky substance can become a chalky color if it is allowed to build up in one place, and this may lead to spots on the teeth.
Whitening Treatments
Some whitening treatments may lead to white spots on the teeth, especially store-bought strips. This is especially problematic when you overuse these whitening systems. If you notice discolored spots after whitening, discontinue the use of the product and consult with your dentist for other suggestions on how to whiten without these effects.
For many people, spots on the teeth are a purely aesthetic concern and don’t affect the health of the teeth. However, if you are troubled by your white spots or their underlying cause, be sure to contact your dentist for guidance.
The professional dental team at Suburban Essex Dental, West Orange, NJ is here to help you and resolve your white spot dilemma. Contact us today to get started in identifying the cause, fixing and preventing white spots in the future.
