Are you seeing creamy or chalky white spots on your teeth? You might feel unhappy that these stains disrupt the look of your smile. But white dental stains could point to a major structural problem in your teeth.
Do not hesitate to let your dentist know about this aesthetic concern. You might require urgent treatment to restore your dental structure. Schedule a consultation with your Los Altos, CA dentist to find cosmetic dental solutions and more. Read on to learn more about white discoloration in teeth and what it means for your overall oral health.
What Is Hypocalcification?
White spots are often a sign that you have hypocalcification. This is a condition in which calcium is depleted from your teeth. Calcium is a major component of your enamel, the outer layer of your teeth, so this is a serious issue for your dental structure.
You likely notice that you cannot get rid of these stains on your smile through your usual oral hygiene routine. These white spots point to weak or thin areas in your enamel where it has eroded or worn down. Once gone, the enamel will not grow back. So these white spots will remain on your smile until you seek treatment from your dentist.
How Will My Dentist Get Rid of White Stains on Teeth?
Enamel will not regenerate, but your dentist can help you preserve the remaining enamel to prevent further damage to your smile. They can give you an in-office fluoride treatment. The dentist will apply a paste, gel, or rinse to the teeth containing fluoride which will absorb into the teeth to make the enamel stronger.
This can preserve your smile, but it will not address existing white discoloration on the teeth from enamel loss. For this, your dentist can use cosmetic dental treatments that will work for your unique smile.
They might employ dental bonding, a procedure in which the dentist applies resin to the teeth to cover stains and give you a whiter and more even tooth color. The dentist may instead give you porcelain veneers. These cap-like shells attach to the front of the affected teeth to cover discoloration and build a fuller and enhance look to your smile.
Veneers have the added benefit of replacing lost enamel on this part of the tooth, serving as a shield to avoid further dental harm. Attend a cosmetic consultation to learn which of these treatments can restore the appearance of your smile and protect your remaining enamel.
How Can I Protect My Tooth Enamel?
You can preserve your enamel and avoid discoloration and deterioration by practicing healthy oral habits. This includes good oral hygiene like brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing every day at home. Visit your dentist for routine cleanings and exams too to maximize preventative dental care.
Your diet can also impact your dental structure. Limit the amount of sugary and acidic foods and drinks that you consume. These will eat away at your teeth over time, weakening your enamel and putting you at risk of forming white spots.