What are white spots on teeth and why do they occur?

We all want a flawless smile, however, sometimes this desire is limited by the white spots that appear on the teeth. They often negatively influence not only smiles, but also confidence and self-esteem. White spots on teeth are a form of tooth discolouration and are not harmful, but can sometimes be an early sign of tooth decay.

Why do white spots appear on teeth?

There are many reasons for the appearance of white spots, including excess fluoride, vitamin deficiency, infections and diseases, an acidic and sugary diet, poor dental hygiene, dental trauma and certain medications. It is important to understand the cause of white spots in order to administer the necessary treatment and prevent future development of oral health problems such as tooth decay and tooth loss.

Possible causes of white spots on teeth

• Demineralisation: Demineralisation creates white spots on the teeth due to the long-term build-up of bacteria. Thus, white spots that form due to demineralisation may indicate dental caries. Often caused by poor brushing, demineralisation occurs mainly in children and adults who wear braces.
• Fluorosis: This is common in children and occurs due to excess exposure to fluoride. It is usually caused by a combination of several actions, such as: drinking fluoridated water and fluoride supplements or from ingesting fluoride paste.
• Hereditary abnormalities: amelogenesis imperfecta is a group of genetic disorders characterised by developmental abnormalities of the tooth enamel. They can be seen as early as childhood and can affect both deciduous and permanent teeth. This type of abnormality can lead to an increased risk of white spots on teeth, tooth decay and tooth sensitivity.
• Diet: Eating foods that are low in calcium can predispose you to dental problems such as white spots. Calcium is the foundation for strong teeth, so a lack of calcium weakens enamel making it susceptible to white spots. Eating calcium-rich foods, such as green leafy vegetables and almonds, minimises the chances of developing white spots over time.

What treatments are needed to remove white spots on teeth?

• Careful dental hygiene: Treatment for this problem is determined by the cause. If you have white spots due to demineralisation, first and foremost, treatment should include improving your dental hygiene. Adults and children should brush their teeth at least twice a day for two minutes and floss daily. Also see a dentist for a check-up to determine the cause of the white spots. Your dentist may prescribe a fluoride gel to help strengthen your teeth and prevent existing white spots from turning into cavities.
• Microabraditon: This procedure involves the removal of a very thin layer of enamel to improve the aesthetic appearance of the teeth. The effects of fluorosis are usually very mild. Mild forms of fluorosis can be treated by tooth whitening or microabrasion to fade white spots on the teeth. In severe cases, cosmetic dentistry techniques (e.g. tooth whitening, veneers, crowns and other restorations) may be used to correct any permanent discolouration.

What other options do we have at the Perio Care clinic in Timisoara?

• Teeth whitening: Teeth whitening can be an ideal solution when there are white spots on your teeth. The best procedure is carried out in a dentist's office by a dentist.
• Dental veneers: Dental veneers (a thin layer of ceramic material) are a great solution if professional teeth whitening does not help remove white spots from your teeth.

How do we prevent white spots on teeth?

• Use clean water: Make sure your water is fluoride-free (if possible) or drink plain water as much as possible.
• Use toothbrush and toothpaste correctly: Children, especially those under six, should be assisted with brushing their teeth to ensure they are using the right amounts of toothpaste (pea-sized) and to make sure they are not swallowing toothpaste.
• Reduce sugary and acidic foods and drinks: Avoid citrus fruits, juices, candies, soda and other soft drinks. If you wear braces, clean them thoroughly, especially around brackets and wires, to prevent white marks on your teeth.
• Avoid tobacco: Quitting smoking can prevent smokers from developing white spots on their teeth.

There are various ways to help prevent white spots on teeth. Practising good oral hygiene is the surest way to prevent most oral health problems, including white spots on teeth. If you're worried about white spots on your teeth, it's best to see a dentist. At the Perio Care clinic we help you discover the cause of the problem and offer treatment solutions tailored to your needs.

dr. Alin Drăgan
Clinica Perio Care