The treatment for white spots on teeth will depend on their cause. Options include composite resin treatment, managing tooth decay, avoiding sugary drinks, and adjusting fluoride use.
White spots can appear on the teeth for various reasons, including poor dental hygiene and eating too many acidic or sugary foods.
In this article, we look at the reasons why people might get white spots on their teeth, and provide 11 tips for treating and preventing them.
There are several possible causes of white spots on the teeth. A common cause is
This is typically the result of increased fluoride consumption in childhood. It is usually a harmless condition that only tends to develop before the teeth break through the gums.
Another common cause is enamel hypoplasia. This condition occurs when a person’s teeth enamel does not form properly. Like fluorosis, hypoplasia only occurs during childhood when a person’s teeth are still developing. However, it can increase the risk of tooth decay.
Other causes of white spots on the teeth include poor dental hygiene, especially when someone is wearing braces or eating too many acidic or sugary foods.
There are several possible treatments for white spots on the teeth. The suitability of these treatments may depend on the underlying cause of the white spots and the condition of a person’s teeth.
Enamel microabrasion
Some people may be able to have microabrasion done to treat their white spots. During this procedure, a dentist removes a small amount of enamel from the teeth to r
Teeth whitening or bleaching
Whitening or bleaching teeth can help to reduce the appearance of white spots and other stains. Various teeth whitening products, such as strips and paste, are available over-the-counter (OTC.) However, people should consult a dentist before using OTC whitening treatments.
Licensed dentists can provide treatments that use stronger bleaching solutions than those available OTC.
Dental veneer
Dental veneers are thin, protective coverings that attach to the front surface of a person’s teeth. They can conceal white spots and other blemishes very effectively.
Dental veneers are only available from a dentist and must be professionally fitted.
Topical fluoride
A dentist may apply topical fluoride to the teeth of people with enamel hypoplasia. This may encourage the strengthening of enamel on the teeth and help prevent tooth decay.
Composite resin
For people with enamel hypoplasia, a dentist may apply composite resin to fill in cavities and to bond the outer enamel of the teeth. This may not be suitable if people have large numbers of white spots on their teeth.
Practicing good dental hygiene can help prevent white spots on teeth and other stains, tooth decay, gum disease, or other dental problems.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that people brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss between their teeth once daily.
For most people, white spots on teeth develop before they reach the age of 10 years old. This may vary in some people. As such, caregivers should encourage their children to have good dental hygiene and other prevention habits. This can help them ensure their teeth stay healthy and strong.
Reducing sugary and acidic foods and drinks
Tooth enamel can be damaged, and the risk of tooth decay is increased by some foods and drinks, especially ones high in sugars or acids.
Foods and drinks to be aware of include the following:
- citrus juices and fruits, such as grapefruit, lemons, and oranges
- hard candies and other sugary sweets
- sodas and other drinks high in sugars, including sports drinks
While occasionally eating these foods and drinks may be harmless, eating too much or too many can lead to damage and blemishes, including white spots.
Drinking water after consuming these foods can help wash them off the teeth and reduce the chances of damage. Drinking through a straw may also help.
Using the right amount of toothpaste
Fluoride toothpaste should only be used after the child is old enough to spit out the extra toothpaste reliably. Usually, this starts around 2 years old. The rice-sized amount should be used for 2-3 year olds
Carers should ensure that children over the age of 3 do not use more than a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Supervising a child’s brushing can help to ensure that they are using an appropriate amount of toothpaste and not swallowing too much.
Following fluoride supplement recommendations
The ADA recommends dietary fluoride supplements for children ages between 6 months and 16 years old living in areas without fluoridated water who have a high risk of developing tooth decay. These supplements should only be used if a doctor or dentist prescribes them for someone.
Although white spots on the teeth may be less than desirable, they are usually not a cause for concern. However, people with enamel hypoplasia may be at increased risk of dental damage and decay.
Anyone concerned about their dental health, or that of their child, should talk with a dentist.
A dentist can evaluate the symptoms and condition of teeth and, if necessary, recommend a treatment plan.
