The presence of white spots on teeth is a common concern for many patients, as they can affect both dental health and aesthetic appeal. Our dentist in Austin, TX, is here to help you understand the origin of these spots.
Are you noticing new coloration on your teeth? If so, it’s important to talk to a trusted dentist in Austin, TX. Contact Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist to get to the bottom of sudden dental changes. Dial (512) 346-4690 to reserve your appointment now.
In this blog, our dentist in Austin, TX, dives into the various reasons behind the formation of white spots on teeth and explores effective treatments to restore your pearly whites.
Causes of White Spots on Teeth
Several factors can cause white spots on teeth, such as:
Dental Fluorosis
One common culprit behind white spots is dental fluorosis, a condition that occurs when individuals are exposed to excessive fluoride during tooth development. This can happen through drinking water, dental products, or supplements containing high levels of fluoride.
While fluoride is essential for preventing cavities, an excess can lead to discoloration and white spots on the teeth.
Enamel Hypoplasia
Enamel hypoplasia is a fairly common condition that affects one out of every 14,000 Americans. This condition is characterized by underdeveloped or thin tooth enamel, which may be caused by nutritional deficiencies, illness during tooth development, or certain medications.
Inadequate enamel formation leaves teeth vulnerable to white spot formation and other dental issues.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Insufficient oral care (such as irregular or inadequate brushing and flossing) can lead to the accumulation of plaque and bacteria on the teeth. This can result in demineralization of the enamel, causing white spots.
Good oral hygiene practices are crucial in preventing such issues.
Braces and Orthodontic Treatments
Individuals undergoing orthodontic treatments (especially those with metal braces) may find white spots forming around the brackets. This occurs due to difficulty in cleaning around the brackets, leading to plaque buildup and subsequent enamel demineralization.
Acidic Foods and Beverages
Frequent intake of acidic foods and beverages (including citrus fruits, sodas, and specific juices) has the potential to wear down tooth enamel. This erosion may result in the development of white spots, alongside heightened tooth sensitivity and an increased risk of dental decay.
Treatment Options for White Spots on Teeth
Luckily, our dentist in Austin, TX, can help patients treat white spots on teeth with solutions such as:
Microabrasion
Microabrasion is a non-invasive dental procedure that involves removing a thin layer of enamel using a mild abrasive and acidic compound. This helps to eliminate or reduce the appearance of white spots, restoring a more uniform color to the teeth.
Topical Fluoride Treatment
Dentists may recommend topical fluoride treatments to strengthen the enamel and promote remineralization. This can be in the form of gels, foams, or varnishes applied directly to the teeth, aiding in the reversal of early-stage white spot lesions.
Dental Bonding
By applying a tooth-colored resin to teeth affected by white spots, our dentist in Austin, TX, can effectively cover and conceal irregularities.
Meet Our Dentist in Austin, TX Today
Consulting with our dentist in Austin, TX, is the best way to diagnose the cause of white spots on teeth. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist at (512) 346-4690 or online here.
