When you look at your smile in the mirror, is your main focus the small white spots that dot your teeth? This is a common dental issue known as dental fluorosis, and although it’s relatively harmless, it can have a lasting impact on your self-confidence and desire to smile. Read below to learn more about dental fluorosis, including why it develops and how you can treat it.
What is Dental Fluorosis?
Dental fluorosis is a condition that typically develops in childhood, but it most often impacts people when they’re adults by causing self-consciousness. Dental fluorosis develops when certain parts of the dental enamel demineralizes, or erodes. This can occur when minerals like calcium and phosphorus are removed from the enamel due to acid and bacteria. However, it can also develop due to overexposure to fluoride in childhood.
What Causes White Spots to Develop on Teeth?
White spots can form on teeth for a number of reasons. Some of the most common include:
- Medications – Some antibiotics, like amoxicillin, can affect your body’s ability to build tooth enamel by interfering with the way the body absorbs nutrients (like calcium and phosphorus). As a result, white spots can develop on the teeth.
- Fluoride Overexposure – In childhood, the dental enamel and structure are still developing. During this time, exposure to too much fluoride can lead to what’s called enamel hypoplasia, which can cause white spots on the teeth.
- Not Consuming Enough Calcium – Not eating enough calcium-rich foods as well as consuming too many sugary and acidic foods and beverages can lead to white spots developing on the teeth due to enamel erosion.
How to Treat White Spots on Teeth
If you’re interested in treating your white spots because they make you feel hesitant to smile, there are a couple of different services that your cosmetic dentist in Irving offers to even out the shade of your smile, including:
- Professional Teeth Whitening – While there are several different teeth whitening options that you can find in the store, these aren’t powerful enough to help minimize the appearance of white spots. Cosmetic dentists use highly concentrated and effective ingredients that are known to be safe for your enamel, and are the best at brightening and evening out your smile.
- Veneers – If your dental fluorosis isn’t able to be treated with professional teeth whitening, cosmetic dentists also offer veneers, which are thin, durable sheaths that are designed to conceal smile imperfections. The result is a set of teeth that look beautiful and completely natural.
If you’re thinking about addressing your dental fluorosis but aren’t sure where to start, give your cosmetic dentist a call to schedule a consultation. They can help you navigate your options and decide the best route to take for your unique situation.
About the Author
Dr. Rafiq Hirji brings over a decade of experience to his patients, allowing them to benefit from his immense knowledge that he’s always happy to share! He offers comprehensive dentistry for patients of all ages, from restorative treatments like dental implants to cosmetic procedures like veneers and teeth whitening. For questions or to schedule a consultation, visit Daily Smiles MacArthur Dental & Orthodontics’ website or call 972-546-4114.