White Spots on Adult Teeth – Causes and Treatment
Have you ever noticed those white spots on your teeth when you smile in the mirror? They can be quite bothersome.
Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many people experience these white spots, which can be caused by poor oral hygiene, enamel hypoplasia, or excessive fluoride intake during childhood.
But fear not! White spots on teeth are a common dental issue that many people face.
The good news is that effective treatments are available to help fade those spots and restore your beautiful smile.
Causes of White Spots on Teeth
It’s essential to understand what causes these pesky white spots.
Here are some common culprits:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Plaque accumulates when teeth are not cleaned and flossed frequently, eroding tooth enamel and resulting in white spots on teeth.
- Enamel Hypoplasia: When enamel fails to form correctly, a condition known as enamel hypoplasia occurs, making teeth susceptible to damage and white patches.
- Excessive Fluoride Intake: While fluoride is essential for dental health, too much of it, especially during childhood when teeth are developing, can lead to white spots known as fluorosis.
- Dietary Factors: Acidic foods and drinks, like citrus fruits and sodas, erode enamel and cause white spots. A diet low in essential minerals weakens enamel further.
- Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva production, caused by medicines or medical conditions, disrupts acid neutralisation and enamel repair, leading to white spots.
Effective Treatments for White Spots on Teeth
Now that we are aware of the source of white spots on teeth, let’s look at different options for removing them:
Professional Dental Cleaning
White spots on teeth might be less noticeable with routine dental visits and professional cleanings to help remove plaque and tartar accumulation.
Microabrasion
A common treatment option for white spots on teeth is microabrasion, which is carefully removing a tiny layer of enamel from the tooth’s surface.
This operation can be completed in a visit to your dentist’s office and is typically painless.
Microabrasion not only improves the appearance of your teeth but also makes them smoother and more resistant to stains.
Teeth Whitening
By bleaching the enamel and creating a more uniform tooth colour, professional teeth whitening procedures can also aid in fading white spots on teeth.
Your dentist can provide custom-made whitening trays and professional-grade whitening gel for home use or perform an in-office whitening treatment for faster results.
Icon Resin Infiltration Technique
The Icon resin infiltration technique is a minimally invasive treatment option that involves filling the pores of the enamel with a tooth-coloured resin material to mask the appearance of white spots.
This procedure can be done in a single visit to your dentist and provides long-lasting results without drilling or anaesthesia.
Dental Veneers
Veneers may be the best option for more severe cases of white spots.
Veneers are thin coverings made of composite resin or porcelain affixed to the teeth’ front surface. They are used to cover up white spots and other flaws.
Preventive Measures for White Spots on Teeth
Prevention is always better than cure.
Here are some simple tips to prevent white spots on teeth from forming on your teeth:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth at least 2 times daily to remove plaque and prevent enamel erosion.
- Watch Your Diet: Eat less sweet and acidic meals and beverages, as these can erode enamel. Opt for tooth-friendly snacks like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
- Use Fluoride Wisely: While fluoride benefits dental health, be mindful of excessive intake, especially in children. Use fluoridated toothpaste in moderation, and consider using fluoride-free water if your local water supply is already fluoridated.
- Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular dental examinations to catch any issues early and get professional advice on maintaining oral health.
Take Action Today!
Don’t let those white spots on your teeth hold you back from smiling confidently. With the correct procedures and dental care, you can have the radiant, gorgeous smile of your dreams.
Do not wait to make an appointment with your dentist if you are experiencing problems with white spots on your teeth. After evaluating your situation, they can suggest the best treatment option.
Remember, your smile is your greatest asset, so take care of it and let your confidence shine through! Say goodbye to white spots on your teeth, and hello to a radiant smile!
White Spots On Teeth Treatment at Cheltenham
White spots on teeth may be a common dental issue, but they are not irreversible.
With the advancements in dental technology and the various effective treatments available, you can bid farewell to those pesky spots and say hello to a dazzling smile.
At Dentist On Warrigal Cheltenham, we believe everyone deserves excellent quality dentistry, and our goal is to help you achieve this.
Call (03) 9583 5506 or book your appointment online.
Visit us at Suite C, 151 Centre Dandenong Road in Cheltenham.
Don’t wait any longer; take action today and reclaim your confidence!