White Spot Lesions on Teeth: Causes, Treatments, & Prevention

What are White Spot Lesions?

Notice a white spot on teeth? White spot lesions signify a loss of minerals from tooth enamel, resulting in uneven white patches on the teeth. White spot lesions are often a result of tooth decay from poor oral hygiene, frequent consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages, nutritional deficiencies, or dry mouth. In this article we’ll dive into what are white marks on teeth and everything you need to know about white spot lesions.

Potential Causes Of White Spot Lesions On Teeth

There are many factors that can contribute to white spot lesions on teeth. Schedule a consultation with your dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here are some of the potential causes of white spot lesions:

Fluorosis

Excess exposure to fluoride, a natural mineral found in some of our water sources, toothpastes, and other products, can result in a condition called fluorosis. Fluorosis can cause the teeth to appear chalky and stained white, yellow, and/or brown in color.

Enamel Hypoplasia

Enamel Hypoplasia is a condition in which the enamel doesn’t develop properly, causing it to be discolored and thinner than normal. Enamel hypoplasia often presents as white spot lesions and may be caused by genetics, tooth trauma during development, or pregnancy-related issues.

Demineralization

Demineralization, or the loss of minerals, is a common cause of white spot lesions. In general, calcium and phosphate minerals are the main minerals lost, which weakens tooth enamel. Demineralization often occurs as a result of poor oral hygiene, as the accumulation of bacterial plaque produces acids that break down your tooth enamel and make it more susceptible to tooth decay.

Available Treatment Options For White Spot Lesions

How to get rid of white marks on teeth? Here are some common treatment methods for white spot lesions:

Microabrasion of the Enamel

A possible method for removing white spot lesions is through microabrasion, which involves gently removing a thin layer of the affected enamel. Your dental professional will use safe materials to remove the white spots and polish the teeth.

Teeth Whitening or Bleaching Treatments

Professional teeth whitening and bleaching treatments may help mask the appearance of white spots. Whitening treatments may or may not use bleaching agents (i.e. hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) to whiten teeth and remove stains and debris. Your dentist can recommend the best whitening options for your smile.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers can be used to cosmetically treat several dental issues, including white spots on front teeth. Veneers are thin, custom-made dental restorations that are placed on the front surface of teeth to improve issues such as stained, chipped, damaged, misshaped, or misaligned teeth.

Topical Fluoride Application

Wondering how to remove white spots on teeth naturally? Fluoride is a natural mineral that protects against tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel, promoting remineralization, and blocking bacteria from causing damage. Your dentist may recommend professional topical fluoride application, which can be given in the form of a varnish, gel, or prescription-strength toothpaste or mouthrinse.

Composite Resin Restoration

Notice the white spot between the teeth? This can be treated with a composite resin restoration, a material which is traditionally used for cavity fillings. They are available in several different shades to match your natural teeth and hide tooth stains and deformities.

How To Prevent White Spot Lesions?

As they say, prevention is the best medicine. To avoid having a white spot on teeth, follow these simple steps:

Check the fluoride levels in your tap water and consult your dentist for guidance.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the optimal level of fluoride in tap water beneficial for protecting against tooth decay and preventing fluorosis is 0.7 mg/L. Levels above 2.0 mg/L should be avoided, as the risk of dental fluorosis is increased. Speak with your dental professional for more information on fluoride levels and their effect on your oral health. You can also ask your local water company about fluoride concentrations in your area.

Remember that bottled water, infant formulas, beverages, and many foods contain fluoride.

It is important to be mindful of fluoride exposure, especially in children. Receiving optimal levels of fluoride is important for protecting teeth against tooth decay, while also preventing fluorosis. Look at the concentration of fluoride in items you may be using, including bottled water, infant formula, foods, and beverages.

If pregnant, consult your obstetrician and dentist about fluoride and any medications that may impact your child's developing teeth.

Monitoring fluoride ingestion is particularly important during pregnancy. Speak with your healthcare providers regarding fluoride exposure and its risks and benefits during pregnancy. Inform them of any medications you are taking or considering taking, as some may affect your child’s health and teeth during their development.

Help children under six brush their teeth using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

Sometimes it can be easy for excess amounts of toothpaste to be squeezed out of the tube, especially for children. Help your children under the age of 6 use the recommended pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and with their brushing techniques.

Individuals with braces should brush and floss thoroughly around wires and brackets to minimize the risk of white spots.

How to get rid of a white spot on teeth after braces? Brushing and flossing after meals is extremely important for individuals with braces, as the amount of plaque accumulation around the orthodontic appliances is typically greater. Your dentist may recommend switching from a manual toothbrush to an electric toothbrush and adding water flosser to your oral hygiene routine with braces. It may also be beneficial to have more frequent professional dental cleanings while undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Great Lakes Can Help You With White Spot Lesions

Questioning ‘why do I have a white spot on my tooth?’ Great Lakes Family Dental can help answer your dental questions and provide you with excellent care and treatment. Early white spot lesions on teeth can be reversed if caught early, and our preventative dental services can help reduce your risk of dental problems in the future. Contact our friendly staff today to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to treat white spots on teeth?

There are many treatment options available to manage white spots by your dental professional. Your dentist may recommend microabrasion of the enamel, composite resin restorations, veneers, teeth whitening or bleaching treatments, or topical fluoride to combat white spots on teeth.

How to treat white spots on a child's teeth?

If you notice white spots on your child’s teeth, contact your pediatric dentist immediately. They will perform a comprehensive examination and will recommend treatment for white spot lesions based on the cause. Potential treatment options for white spots on your child’s teeth may include fluoride treatments, microabrasion of the enamel, composite resin restorations, or dental sealants.

How to treat white spots on teeth after braces?

Unfortunately, there is a high prevalence of white spots during orthodontic treatment as a result of plaque accumulation around braces. Once braces are removed, dental professionals recommend waiting at least 3 months before treating white spot lesions to allow for potential remineralization naturally. This time also allows your teeth to become less sensitive and stabilized prior to treatment. After 3 months, your dentist will recommend the most appropriate treatment.

How can white spots on teeth be treated naturally?

There are a number of natural methods promoted to treat white spots, such as using fluoride toothpaste, baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, and oil pulling. However, you should speak with your dental professional prior to doing any natural or home remedies. Some natural ways to improve white spots that you can start implementing now include brushing and flossing daily, adjusting your diet to include more calcium-rich foods (milk, cheese, yogurt), and limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages.