White Spots On Teeth: Causes And Treatment

White spots on teeth is a more common problem than you might realize. The development of white spots is usually not a cause for concern, but it can impact your teeth's appearance. If you have white spots on your teeth, it pays to know why they are there and what you can do about them.

What Causes White Spots on Teeth?

There are several different possible reasons for the white spots on the teeth. To find the reason, it is important to know when they first appeared.

If you have had white spots since you were a child, they are most likely the result of a problem with the development of enamel as your teeth erupted. Known as enamel hypoplasia, it can result in your teeth having little to no enamel. The condition can be caused by trauma, Celiac disease, and bacterial infection.

Another possible cause of white spots is hyperfluorosis. This condition also occurs in childhood and is the result of a child ingesting too much fluoride toothpaste.

In adulthood, the white spots could result from a buildup of plaque. They can also be an indication of the presence of cavities and tooth decay. When bacteria builds up on the teeth, it can thin out the enamel.

How Are White Spots Treated?

The treatment for white spots depends largely on the reason for the condition. For instance, children with hyperfluorosis will need to be closely monitored to ensure they are not ingesting too much toothpaste. Your dentist might even recommend using a different toothpaste for a period of time.

If the white spots are the result of a buildup of plaque, cavities, or tooth decay, the dentist will treat the underlying condition. Treatment can include a filling or crown placed over the discolored tooth.

Teeth whitening is often an option if the white spots are the result of enamel hypoplasia. If whitening does not help to hide the appearance of the spots, dental veneers is an option. The veneers would effectively hide the discoloration and give a more even appearance across the mouth.

The most important thing to remember is to call a dentist, like those at Treasure Valley Periodontics, when you first notice the white spots. The spots could be a first sign that there is a serious problem on the horizon that could result in significant damage to your teeth. At the very least, your dentist can help you deal with the cosmetic impact on your teeth.

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