If you look in the mirror and notice white spots on your teeth, they could point to a major dental health concern. You may feel unhappy about the way they look on your teeth, and your dentist can help you improve the appearance of your smile. But you should also visit your dentist about this issue to protect the structure of your teeth.
These spots could mean that your smile is vulnerable to severe and irreversible dental problems, so do not hesitate to talk to your dentist. Read on to learn more about this white discoloration, its impact on your oral health, and how you can get rid of it.
Defining Hypocalcification
White spots can form on your smile if you experience a decline in the amount of calcium in the enamel of your teeth. Dentists refer to this dental concern as hypocalcification.
Calcium is a major component in the surface layer of your teeth. If too much of this mineral deteriorates, then the enamel itself becomes thin and weak. This manifests in the appearance of chalky or creamy-looking white discoloration on the teeth.
These areas not only detract from the look of your smile, but they designate parts of the tooth that are vulnerable to dental dangers like tooth decay. If you notice this issue in your smile, discuss your symptoms with your dentist.
Eliminating White Discoloration on Your Smile
Calcium depletion in the tooth enamel may occur for a few reasons. Your dentist will want to determine the cause before pursuing treatment. In many instances, patients can lose calcium in their teeth by consuming acidic foods or relaxing their oral hygiene routines. These can lead to plaque or acid eating away at your enamel.
In other cases, patients may have a higher propensity for calcium loss and be more susceptible to this issue. Your dentist can help strengthen your tooth enamel and resolve this concern with fluoride treatments.
They may also suggest that you use toothpaste or mouthwash that contains fluoride at home. The fluoride will fortify the enamel, making it better able to resist plaque and other threats to the health of your smile.
The discoloration may remain after this treatment. Your dentist can employ cosmetic dental solutions to restore the color of your teeth. They can make your smile a more even and beautiful color with tooth bonding.
Preventing Calcium Loss in Tooth Enamel
You can work with your dentist to prevent hypocalcification in your smile. They may recommend that you avoid eating sugary or acidic foods to avoid erosion of your tooth enamel.
The dentist will also ask that you remain diligent in your oral hygiene practices. You should brush your teeth twice each day and floss daily. Visit your dentist for routine teeth cleanings and exams as well for optimal preventative dental care. Your dentist can give you regular fluoride treatments to protect your smile if needed.