Having sparkly white teeth can make your smile look more attractive. But small white stains on your teeth are exactly the opposite of that. Those who have them often question: Are white spots on teeth permanent? They could be, depending on what’s causing them. Continue reading to learn more about their causes and treatment options.
Why Do I Have White Spots on My Teeth?
Unwanted white spots on teeth can occur due to a number of reasons. Some major ones are:
Fluorosis
Fluoride is undeniably important for teeth, but too much fluoride? That could be a problem. Excess fluoride, whether it’s because of drinking high-fluoride water or swallowing toothpaste, affects your enamel during tooth development, causing white streaks.
Demineralization
When the harmful bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and produce acids, they demineralize your enamel. Your enamel loses minerals like calcium and phosphate. As a result, you may see small chalky white spots on your tooth surface.
Enamel hypoplasia
Some people have a condition called enamel hypoplasia, which causes white or brown-yellow lesions on their teeth. It can be hereditary or may develop because of premature birth or nutritional deficiencies.
Braces or orthodontic treatment
Teeth naturally become yellowish over time, and it happens to those wearing braces, too. The part of your tooth that’s covered with the bracket or orthodontic appliance might not get stained, while the rest of your tooth becomes discolored.
That’s a reason braces wearers often see white streaks on their teeth once the braces are removed.
Are White Spots on Teeth Permanent?
White spots are usually a cosmetic concern rather than a structural one. Whether they are permanent depends on the underlying cause. If white spots are caused by early enamel demineralization (early decay), they may sometimes be improved or reversed with appropriate dental care.
However, the white spots that occur due to fluorosis or enamel hypoplasia are usually permanent and don’t go away on their own.
Can White Spots on Teeth Be Removed?
Yes, in many cases, treatment options are available. When considering options on how to get rid of white spots on teeth, your dentist can help. They may suggest:
Fluoride application
For those with early tooth decay, fluoride application through a gel or varnish can stop the spots from worsening.
Enamel microabrasion
Your dentist removes a very thin layer of the enamel using a gentle abrasive compound, which makes the white spots look less prominent.
Teeth whitening
This can balance the color of your teeth. Talk to your dental professional about an in-office treatment or a custom take-home kit.
Veneers
For particularly stubborn white stains that are hard to remove, dentists recommend covering them up with veneers.
Final Words
White spots caused by fluorosis or enamel hypoplasia are often long-lasting, but several cosmetic treatments can significantly improve their appearance. If you’re dealing with this issue, visit our dentist at White Arch Dental for a one-on-one consultation. Call us at (978) 772-6658 today!
