Healthy teeth are the most important part of a beautiful smile, and discolored areas on enamel can sometimes distract from that overall beauty. White spots may appear for a number of different reasons. Luckily, they aren’t a permanent problem. Learn what you can do to treat white spots and achieve the smile you have always wanted.
Reasons White Spots Appear
To understand how to treat white spots on your teeth, it is important to first understand the reasons they appear.
Fluorosis
Fluorosis is one of the more common reasons that white spots occur on a young person’s teeth. While the teeth are still forming, consuming large amounts of fluoride can result in the appearance of spots. Excessive amounts of fluoride can be ingested from certain supplements or from accidentally swallowing toothpaste. The best way to avoid fluorosis is to monitor the amount of fluoride your child ingests — not too much and not too little. Teach them to avoid swallowing toothpaste, monitor the content of the vitamins you give them, and try to avoid fluoride mouthwash until they are at least eight years old.
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Demineralization
For adults, white spots commonly occur for the opposite reason — lack of sufficient minerals. This can be the result of a poor diet, a condition that causes malabsorption like celiac disease, or poor dental hygiene. If you suffer from demineralization, consider supplementing your diet with a mineral-rich vitamin, avoid acidic and sugar-filled foods, and consult with a health professional about any conditions that could be causing your body to have trouble absorbing nutrients.
Treatment for White Spots
There are a few different methods for treating, or concealing, white spots on your teeth.
Teeth Whitening
One of the most common methods of dealing with white spots is to attempt to whiten the rest of the tooth to camouflage the spots. There are a number of at-home over-the-counter teeth whitening products, but these are often slow and can cause complications. Instead, opt for professional teeth whitening at your trusted local dentist to ensure your tooth shade is brought to a level that will best match your spots.
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Veneers
Lastly, veneers are another excellent option for improving the appearance of your smile. Porcelain veneers can be custom fabricated and bonded to your teeth in order to achieve a beautiful smile that is resistant to future stains.
Consult With Parkcrest Dental Group to Improve Your Smile
If you want to achieve the beautiful smile you have always wanted, contact the Parkcrest Dental Group today. Our expert dentists can recommend the ideal solution for your teeth. Make an appointment with our team today! If you have questions, give us a call at 1-417-887-1220.