[Dental Health] White spots on teeth could be fluorosis or tooth demineralization! Treat them early to prevent cavities.
Have you noticed white spots on your teeth, and the surface feels rough and uneven to the touch? These white spots are signs of fluoride plaque or tooth demineralization, usually found on the front surfaces of the teeth or near the gum line. Why do these white spots appear? What impact do they have on your teeth? And how can they be removed?
Why do white spots appear on teeth? Will they affect teeth?
There are two main causes of white spots on teeth: fluoride and demineralization.
(1) Fluoride
Excessive fluoride intake during teething in infants or children can lead to fluorosis, causing white spots to form on the surface of the teeth. This condition only occurs when excessive fluoride is ingested or consumed during teething in infants or children.
(2) Demineralization
Improper dental cleaning can lead to demineralization of the tooth surface, especially during orthodontic treatment. Similarly, long-term erosion of the tooth enamel by acidic beverages, foods, or other substances can also cause demineralization, resulting in a whitening and roughening of the tooth crown. If left untreated, this can lead to calcium loss and potentially tooth decay.
How to treat and prevent white spots on teeth?
White spots on teeth can appear at any age. To eliminate and prevent them, fluoride spots and demineralization each have their own treatment methods:
(1) Fluorosis
When treating fluorosis, the treatment method depends on the severity of the fluorosis. There are three main treatment options: resin infiltration (Icon), dental veneers, and porcelain restorations.
• Resin infiltration (ICON)
Suitable for mild to moderate fluorosis, this method involves penetrating the surface of the fluorosis stain with resin to eliminate it. It is a non-invasive repair method that does not require injections.
Dental veneers
For more severe fluorosis, veneers are made of ceramic or composite materials.
It is fixed to the tooth surface, which can cover fluoride spots and improve appearance.
Porcelain veneer restorations
Suitable for severe fluorosis, porcelain veneers can completely cover the fluoride.
Spots. Restorative materials are custom-made to fit the shape and color of the patient's teeth.
(2) Decalcification
If the demineralization is mild, the tooth surface will turn slightly whiter but will still be generally smooth. As long as the cause of the demineralization is found and the teeth are cleaned properly, the components in saliva will naturally repair the damaged area, and the fluorosis will gradually disappear. If the demineralization is deep, the tooth surface will turn significantly whiter, local structures will peel off, and the crown will become rough. In this case, you need to seek treatment and repair from a dentist to prevent tooth decay.
In addition to brushing your teeth correctly and using fluoride toothpaste, you can clean your mouth with 0.2% fluoride mouthwash morning and night. Also, avoid brushing your teeth immediately after eating; rinse with water first, and wait 45 minutes to 1 hour before cleaning your teeth. In daily life, reduce your intake of sugary and acidic beverages such as soft drinks, and drink more water to neutralize the acidic environment in your mouth.
Author: Dr. Chen Haoxian
