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How to Get Rid of White Spots on Teeth

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A young woman looking at her teeth in the mirror

Just like a peacock displays its vibrant tail to showcase its vitality and superior genetics, our sparkling white teeth serve a similar purpose. They’re a testament to our personal health and genetic quality. 

However, sometimes we find white spots on otherwise healthy teeth. Various factors can cause white spots on teeth, such as poor oral hygiene, high fluoride intake, and genetic factors, to name a few. 

These white spots not only affect the appearance of your teeth but also indicate potential dental problems like enamel loss and decay. It is possible to reverse these white spots. 

Some ways to get rid of white spots on teeth include improving your oral hygiene, professional teeth whitening, microabrasion, dental bonding, and enamel microabrasion.

If you’ve noticed these spots on your teeth, or you are generally interested in obtaining a healthier white smile, Palermo Village Dental is your go-to for that perfect smile dental checkup

What Causes White Spots on Teeth?

So, you’ve spotted some white marks on your teeth. That’s a pretty common occurrence, and it can be caused by a few different things.

Dental Fluorosis

One possibility is dental fluorosis. This happens when you get too much fluoride while your teeth are still developing under your gums. It’s not harmful, but it can lead to white spots, which might be bothersome to some individuals.

Enamel Hypoplasia

Another potential cause is enamel hypoplasia. This is a condition where your teeth don’t have enough enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth. It can happen for a variety of reasons, like poor nutrition, premature birth, or even some medications.

Demineralization

Then there’s demineralization, or the loss of minerals from your teeth. This often happens when you consume too many sugary or acidic foods and drinks.

If you’re noticing white spots, we encourage you to chat with your dentist. They’ll be able to tell you what’s causing them and how to treat it. It’s also a good reminder to keep up with brushing and flossing regularly and visit your dentist for regular checkups

Treatments to Get Rid of White Spots on Teeth

Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is a popular and effective option to reduce white spots on teeth. 

Palermo Village Dental in Oakville, Ontario, offers in-office teeth whitening procedures that can help tackle teeth dulled by aging, food and drink stains, or even fluorosis and other causes of white spots on your teeth. 

In addition to their whitening services, we provide a comprehensive assessment of your oral health and are committed to making sure you are satisfied in the long term. 

Enamel Microabrasion

Enamel microabrasion is a minimally invasive and gentle technique that removes white spots on teeth without damaging the enamel. In this procedure, a mild acid and abrasive substance are used to etch the tooth’s surface and remove the stain. 

However, enamel microabrasion may not be effective for extensive white spots on teeth. Additionally, it requires healthy enamel and a certain level of tooth discoloration. Consult your dentist to see if this is the right option for you.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is another option for correcting white spots on teeth. Much like veneers, this procedure uses composite resin applied to the affected tooth surface and moulded to match its original shape and colour. Then, it’s hardened with a curing light and polished to blend with the surrounding teeth. 

The difference is that veneers replace the whole tooth, while dental bonding is usually used for chips and gaps. Dental bonding is a noninvasive process that provides instant results.

Tips to Improve Your Oral Hygiene

The best way to deal with white spots is to prevent them from happening in the first place. And that starts with taking care of your teeth. 

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is key to making sure your smile looks and feels its best. You have got to make sure you’re brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and using mouthwash to keep plaque buildup at bay. 

This can help prevent discoloration of your teeth. But remember, be gentle when you brush–you don’t want to damage your enamel by brushing too hard.

Stop Smoking

If you’re a smoker, it’s a good idea to quit. Smoking can cause all sorts of problems for your teeth, including staining and white spots. 

Limit Sugary & Acidic Foods

And try to limit sugary or acidic foods and drinks. They can wear down your enamel and lead to more white spots.

A man in an dentist's office shaking hands with his dentist

Spotless Smiles with Palermo Village Dental

White spots on teeth can negatively impact your confidence and overall dental health. There are various ways to treat and prevent white spots on teeth, such as professional teeth whitening, dental bonding, and enamel microabrasion. 

Always consult your dentist at Palermo Village Dental before undergoing any procedure, and follow good oral habits to help prevent further damage. Book your appointment with us today.

Written by Dr. Christopher Blair

Dr. Christopher Blair completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree at the University of Toronto. He is an avid cyclist and has often combined his passion for cycling with charitable endeavours. Most notably, Dr. Blair is passionate about his efforts to raise funds to support kids living with cancer and who are cancer survivors. Through his participation in Tour for Kids, Dr. Blair has raised thousands of dollars to support Camp Trillium, Camp Quality, and Camp Oochegeas, 3 camps in the Toronto area that support kids living with cancer.

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