Do you have white spots on your teeth that don’t seem to go away no matter how much you brush your teeth? If Yes, you are not alone. A recent study found that 1 in 14,000 people in the US experience this condition.
White spot on the teeth is also known as decalcification. If ignored it can lead to serious dental conditions like tooth loss, gum disease, and gum recession.
This article will shed light on what decalcification or white spots on the teeth are. It is also going to unveil the cause and treatment of the condition.
What exactly is Decalcification?
Decalcification occurs when minerals like calcium leach out of the teeth. This happens when you don’t brush your teeth regularly and the bacterial build-up on your teeth starts to break down your tooth enamel.
Causes of White Spots
White spots on the teeth are an indication that the enamel is starting to decompose. Below are some of the main causes of it.
Accumulation of plaque
Not following a good oral care routine can lead to the accumulation of bacteria in your mouth. The activity of this bacteria can lead to the formation of tartar and plaque which can cause decalcification.
People who removed their braces may notice some white spots which is due to the build-up of plaque under or around the braces.
Fluorosis
Using toothpaste with fluoride and a good toothbrush can help strengthen the teeth. However, when you use too much fluoride toothpaste you may experience discoloration of your teeth. Children who consume fluoride toothpaste or drinks with a high fluoride content are more likely to experience decalcification.
Dietary Choices
Eating foods and drinks with a high acid content can increase the odds of you having white spots on your teeth. You see, the acids in these foods can ebb away your enamel.
Consuming sugar-rich foods regularly can also cause decalcification. As pointed out by dentists, regularly consuming sugary foods and beverages can increase the rate at which plaque is formed. Plaque can damage the enamel and increase the likelihood of you having white spots on your teeth.
When your mouth is open when you sleep
People who sleep with their mouth open may have temporary decalcification when they wake up. The white spot on their teeth is caused by dehydration. As soon as saliva touches the teeth, the white spots will vanish.
Effective ways to get rid of the white spots on your teeth
Bleaching
This involves undergoing a tooth whitening procedure to balance the white part of your teeth with the other areas.
If your decalcification is a result of the consumption or overuse of fluoride, you should not use this method, as it can make the white spot have other shades of white.
Veneers
If the white spots on your teeth are very obvious, your dentist may recommend that you conceal them with veneers. Veneers are custom-made shells that are designed to cover your teeth.
Chin Straps
If you open your mouth while sleeping and experience temporary decalcification when you wake up, you should consider getting a chin strap. Wearing a chin strap before bed will prevent you from opening your mouth when you sleep.
Microabrasion
This procedure effectively removes white spots and gives your teeth a better appearance. During the procedure, a special device is used to remove the upper layer of the tooth surface carefully.
How to prevent decalcification
Below are tips that can help prevent you from having white spots on your teeth.
Follow an oral care routine
Brush with a good electric or manual toothbrush twice daily. This will help prevent the build-up of plaque.
Use Waterpik
Waterpik is great for people with braces, as it can help remove food from the brackets of braces. It can also help clean the teeth.
Reduce your consumption of high-acid and sugary foods
Reduce or stop eating foods and drinks that are high in acid. Keep in mind that fruits like- oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are high in acid. Be sure to rinse or brush your mouth after consuming them.
Final note
Declasification is preventable. Following an oral care routine and avoiding high-acid and sugary foods can go a long way to help prevent you from experiencing it. Individuals with mild to severe white spots on their teeth can address them by opting for veneers and bleaching their teeth.