White spots that appear on the surface of teeth can signify early signs of enamel demineralization. How do you get rid of white spot lesions on your teeth? In this article, we address this question and talk about smile makeover procedures that can help.
How Do You Get Rid of White Spot Lesions on Your Teeth?
White spots on teeth are a sign of enamel demineralization that can develop into cavities if left untreated. These white lesions are typically caused by:
- Plaque or tartar buildup due to insufficient oral hygiene
- Habitual consumption of acidic foods and drinks
- Demineralization caused by dry mouth
- Fluorosis (caused by excessive use of fluoride during tooth development)
- Enamel hypoplasia (a developmental condition)
Since the leading cause of white lesions on the teeth is enamel weakening and demineralization, supporting and strengthening the enamel is the primary way to get rid of this condition. Let us look at several steps that are recommended in more detail.
Oral Hygiene Improvement
Plaque and tartar that accumulate on the teeth due to insufficient oral hygiene are acidic and filled with bacteria. As we mentioned earlier, both bacteria and acid destroy the enamel over time. Thus, improving your daily oral hygiene habits should be the first step in treating white spots on your teeth.
Professional Dental Cleanings
Regular professional dental cleanings are another crucial step in supporting enamel health. In general, it is recommended to undergo such cleanings twice a year. However, if your enamel is significantly weakened, your doctor might recommend scheduling a cleaning every 3 to 4 months.
Remineralization Procedures
In many cases, white spot lesions can be reversed in their early stages through remineralization, a process that restores lost minerals to the enamel. The methods can include the following:
- Using fluoride toothpaste at home is recommended because fluoride has been proven to strengthen the enamel and fight off bacteria.
- Professional fluoride treatments at a dental office are typically recommended after dental cleanings. Professional fluoride treatments utilize stronger solutions than over-the-counter products, effectively promoting remineralization.
- Calcium phosphate products contain the building blocks of enamel and help repair early lesions when used regularly.
- Your dentist may recommend prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste (5,000 ppm) for daily use in more severe cases.
Dietary Changes
Avoid sugary and acidic foods and beverages, which promote enamel erosion and bacterial growth. Increase your intake of water, dairy products (for calcium), and crunchy vegetables that naturally clean your teeth.
Professional Dental Treatments
If home care and remineralization therapies do not improve the appearance of white spots, your dentist might recommend one of the following procedures:
- Icon resin infiltration is a minimally invasive procedure that involves applying a special low-viscosity resin to the tooth surface. It penetrates the enamel and blends the white spot with the surrounding tooth color. It’s especially effective for post-orthodontic white spots and early enamel lesions.
- Microabrasion is a cosmetic procedure. Your dentist will use a combination of mild acid and abrasive agents to gently remove a thin layer of enamel, reducing or eliminating white spots. This is usually followed by a remineralization treatment.
- Dental veneers or bonding are also cosmetic procedures that can be used in severe or stubborn cases of white lesions, especially when accompanied by structural defects of the tooth. Both dental bonding and veneers cover the affected tooth, masking the imperfections.
Make an Appointment Today
Do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at Tropic Dental Care today. We will carefully examine your teeth to determine the cause of white lesions and offer you the appropriate course of action.
