If you see creamy or chalky white spots on your teeth, you might feel self-conscious about the way they make your smile appear. But this type of dental discoloration could point to a severe structural dental problem too. White spots on your smile may mean you have a condition called hypocalcification.
Schedule a consultation with your dentist to restore your tooth color and prevent further damage from underlying dental concerns. Read on to discover what white spots on the teeth mean for your oral health and how our cosmetic dentistry can resolve the problem.
What Is Hypocalcification?
Hypocalcification refers to a dental issue in which calcium, a major part of your tooth enamel, depletes from the teeth. This can leave white spots on the teeth’s surface, pointing to areas where the enamel has weakened.
You cannot get rid of this discoloration with your usual oral hygiene routine. The white spots designate tooth enamel damage. Once thinned, the enamel will not regrow. You will need help from a dentist to restore this cosmetic dental concern.
Thinned enamel can put your teeth at risk of tooth decay and other dental problems. So do not ignore this symptom. Some patients might suffer calcium loss in their smiles due to genetics or an underlying medical issue. But sometimes, it can occur due to poor oral habits.
Can My Dentist Get Rid of White Dental Discoloration?
As mentioned, enamel damage will not amend itself, but your dentist can help you restore the structure and look of your smile with dental solutions. They can also preserve remaining tooth enamel with fluoride treatment.
This involves a rinse, paste, or gel containing fluoride that a dentist can apply to the teeth. The fluoride will absorb into the enamel, strengthening it and making it resistant to further harm. This will not address existing discoloration though.
Your dentist can get rid of white spots on the teeth with cosmetic treatment. They may use teeth bonding, which involves sculpting resin to the teeth to make the smile appear more even in shape and color.
The dentist might also suggest porcelain veneers, shell-like caps that attach to the front of teeth to build a bright, straight smile. These will cover dental stains and provide long-lasting smile enhancement.
Can I Prevent Calcium Loss in My Teeth?
Some dental patients might have dispositions to hypocalcification which will require individualized dental care from a dentist to prevent. But good oral habits can help you avoid calcium loss in your teeth.
For instance, consuming acidic or sugary foods and drinks could eat away at your teeth, leading to calcium loss in the enamel. Limit these items from your diet to preserve your natural dental structure.
You should also maintain proper oral hygiene routines. Brushing teeth and flossing will remove plaque and other harmful residues from your smile before they can hurt your teeth. Visit your dentist for regular check-ups too to get the best preventative dental care.