White spots on teeth can be an unwanted cosmetic issue that many people face, but how do you get rid of them?
They often appear as chalky, opaque patches and can be caused by various factors. While they aren’t harmful, they can be bothersome and may affect your confidence.
Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce or even eliminate white spots, restoring the appearance of your teeth.
Here’s what causes white spots on your teeth and how you can get rid of them.
What causes white spots on teeth?
Before you start addressing the issue of white spots on your teeth, it’s essential to understand the root cause.
White spots typically occur due to the demineralisation of enamel, which affects the tooth’s appearance. Some common causes include:
1) Poor oral hygiene
If plaque isn’t properly removed, especially around the gum line and between teeth, it can lead to demineralisation of the enamel. This is often seen in people who wear braces, as plaque can build up around brackets if proper cleaning techniques aren’t followed.
2) Fluorosis
Excess fluoride exposure during childhood while teeth are still developing can cause white streaks or spots on the enamel. While fluoride is beneficial for preventing cavities, too much can cause fluorosis, leading to cosmetic concerns.
3) Diet
Diets high in sugary or acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, fizzy drinks, and sweets, can weaken enamel over time. Acidic foods strip away minerals, making white spots more pronounced. Additionally, frequent snacking without proper oral care can contribute to demineralisation.
4) Dry mouth and dehydration
Saliva plays a crucial role in remineralising enamel and maintaining oral health. If you frequently experience dry mouth or dehydration, your saliva production may be lower than necessary to keep your teeth protected.
What causes white spots in the morning?
Some people notice white spots on their teeth in the morning that seem to fade throughout the day.
This can be due to temporary dehydration from sleeping with an open mouth or breathing through the mouth overnight.
A lack of saliva while sleeping can cause teeth to dry out, making white patches more visible upon waking. Drinking water and rehydrating usually helps these spots fade within a few hours.
How to get rid of white spots on teeth
If you have white spots on your teeth, there are several treatments available to reduce or eliminate them, depending on the cause.
- Brush twice daily
- Floss regularly
- Stay hydrated
- Limit acidic and sugary foods
- Address mouth breathing
If these daily habits don’t improve the appearance of white spots, professional treatments may be necessary to restore an even enamel tone.
1) Remineralisation
One of the easiest ways to treat white spots is by remineralising the enamel. Fluoride toothpaste, remineralising gels, and calcium phosphate pastes can help restore lost minerals, strengthening the enamel and making white spots less visible. Your dentist may also recommend professional remineralisation treatments.
2) Microabrasion
For more stubborn spots, microabrasion is a cosmetic procedure that removes a thin layer of enamel, smoothing out white patches. This treatment is often combined with whitening for optimal results.
3) Professional whitening treatments
A professional-grade whitening treatment, such as Vitalisse, can help even out the colour of your enamel, making white spots less noticeable. Whitening gels used under professional supervision can gradually blend the colour of white spots with the surrounding enamel for a more uniform look.
Ready to improve the appearance of your smile?
White spots on teeth don’t have to be permanent. With the right care and professional treatments, you can restore a more even, healthy-looking appearance.
If at-home solutions aren’t giving you the results you want, speak to your dentist about the best treatment options for you.
Take the first step towards a more confident smile today!
