If you have ever seen white spots on someone’s teeth and wondered what they were, you’re not alone. Many people find these spots to be unsightly and want to know what they could be caused by.
In many cases, these white stains are a sign of tooth decay. However, there are other reasons why they may form, so it’s important to identify the cause before taking action. Don’t worry. In most cases, this is a reversible condition.
You can do a few things to prevent white spots from forming on your teeth in the first place.
What are the white spots on my teeth?
There could be many reasons why you have white spots on your teeth. It could be that you have a dental cavity, or you may have enamel hypoplasia – a condition in which the tooth enamel is thin and underdeveloped. Another possibility is that you’re suffering from fluorosis – a condition caused by too much fluoride exposure. Whatever the cause, it’s important to get it checked out by a dentist to determine the best course of action.
If you do have white spots on your teeth, there are a few things that you can do to try to improve their appearance.
Why do I have white stains on my teeth? Here are the most common reasons why you have them.
What causes white spots on teeth
There are several reasons why you may have white spots on your teeth.
Nine most typical reasons for white spots on your teeth:
1. Acidic Diet
There are a few foods that you should avoid if you want to keep your teeth healthy and free from white spots. These highly acidic foods can eat away at your tooth enamel, so avoiding them is essential. A diet high in sugar also causes the formation of acidic plaque, which can erode enamel. Acidic foods and drinks include sodas and certain fruits, such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruit.
Acid reflux is another trigger because it produces acid in the stomach, throat, and mouth. As your tooth enamel breaks down, you may experience other symptoms like sensitivity to cold or hot foods and drinks.
2. Enamel hypoplasia
Another possible cause is enamel hypoplasia, a condition in which the tooth enamel is thin and underdeveloped. Enamel hypoplasia can be caused by some things, including nutrient deficiencies, taking antibiotics to treat a fever, and smoking while pregnant.
If you have enamel hypoplasia, you might have grooves or lines in your teeth, tooth sensitivity, and less enamel than average. While it might not seem a big deal, enamel hypoplasia can cause many problems. That’s why it’s essential to see a dentist if you think you might have this condition.
3. Fluorosis
Fluorosis is another potential cause of white spots on teeth. This condition occurs when there’s too much fluoride exposure, which can happen if you drink water with high fluoride levels or use certain dental products containing fluoride.
It can cause tooth decay, discoloration, and pitted enamel – making it harder to brush and clean teeth. But don’t worry – it’s preventable! Ensure your kids don’t drink too many fluoridated beverages or swallow too much fluoride toothpaste.
4. Plaque accumulation
If you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque can build up on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that contains bacteria. If it’s not removed, it can harden into tartar, which is even more challenging.
5. Dental cavities
Dental cavities are another common cause of white spots on teeth. Cavities form when the tooth enamel is weakened by acid from plaque and tartar. The acid eats away at the enamel, causing a small hole to form. As the cavity gets bigger, it can cause toothache, sensitivity to cold or hot foods and drinks, and pain when you bite down.
6. Sleeping with your mouth open & Sleep apnea
Sleeping with your mouth open makes you more likely to develop a dry mouth. This can happen because the saliva that normally keeps your mouth moist evaporates when your mouth is open. Dry mouth can lead to several problems, including an increased risk for cavities and gum disease.
7. Smoking
Smoking is another factor contributing to the formation of white stains on teeth. That’s because smoking causes problems in the mouth, including dryness, bad breath, and an increased risk for cavities and gum disease.
8. Braces
You’re more likely to develop white spots on your teeth if you have braces. That’s because the brackets and wires can trap food and plaque against the teeth, which can cause cavities.
9. Teeth whitening products
If you use teeth whitening products too often, you might have white spots on your teeth. That’s because the chemicals in the products can cause tooth enamel to break down. If you use whitening products, follow the directions carefully and only use them as directed.
Now you know what causes white stains on teeth.
Symptoms
The main symptom of white spots on teeth is white stains on your teeth! You may also experience other dental problems like cavities, tooth sensitivity, and enamel loss.
How to get rid of white spots on your teeth
The treatment for white spots on teeth will depend on the underlying cause.
1. Change your diet
If the spots are due to acidic foods and drinks, the best thing you can do is cut back on your consumption of these items. It would help if you also tried to brush your teeth immediately after eating or drinking anything acidic.
2. Improve your oral hygiene
If the spots are due to plaque accumulation, the best thing you can do is practice good oral hygiene habits. This means brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. You should also see your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups.
Both adults and children must brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time and floss daily. This will help keep your teeth healthy and clean!
3. Microabrasion
In some cases, the dentist may recommend a procedure called microabrasion. This involves using a small hand-held device to sand away the spots. The procedure is usually done in one or two sessions and doesn’t require any anesthesia.
4. Tooth bleaching
The dentist may recommend bleaching your teeth if the spots are due to teeth whitening products. This can help to remove the spots and make your teeth look brighter.
5. Cavity fillings
If the spots are due to cavities, the dentist will need to do a procedure to fill the cavity. This usually involves drilling out the decay and filling the hole with a tooth-colored material.
6. Stop smoking
If the spots are due to smoking, the best thing you can do is quit smoking. This will help to reduce your risk for other dental problems like gum disease and tooth loss.
7. Stop mouth breathing and get rid of your sleep apnea
If the stains are due to dry mouth, you should try to drink more water and use a saliva substitute. Also, most of the damage is done while you sleep when you snore, so try to get rid of your sleep apnea.
Use chin straps
If you’re looking for a way to keep your mouth closed while you sleep, consider wearing a chin strap. See a sleep specialist to help with this.
Use Nasal decongestants
Suppose you have a cold or allergies, which can help to reduce congestion and improve airflow. Congested? Take nasal decongestants before bed to help you sleep with your mouth closed and feel better faster!
8. Go to your dentist regularly
- If the spots are due to enamel hypoplasia, there is no way to reverse the condition. However, your dentist can help you manage the symptoms and protect your teeth from further damage.
- If the stains are due to cavities, your dentist will need to fill the hole.
- If the spots are due to teeth whitening products, you should stop using them and see your dentist if they don’t go away.
- If the stains are due to braces, your dentist will need to adjust the braces, so they fit correctly.
Now you know how to fix white stains on teeth. With the help of your dentist, you can get rid of these spots and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile.
Prevention is the best solution
The best way to prevent white spots on teeth is to practice good oral hygiene.
- This means brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash.
- You should also see your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups.
- If you have braces, you should brush and floss your teeth properly, so food and plaque don’t get trapped around the brackets and wires.
- If you use teeth whitening products, follow the directions carefully and only use them as directed.
- Finally, if you smoke, the best thing you can do for your teeth is to quit smoking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can white stains on teeth go away?
The answer to this question depends on the underlying cause of the white spots. If the spots are due to acidic foods and drinks, they may go away on their own if you cut back on your consumption of these items and brush your teeth immediately after eating or drinking anything acidic. If the stains are due to fluorosis, they will not go away on their own, but a professional fluoride treatment may help reduce the spots’ appearance. If the marks are due to plaque accumulation, they may go away with good oral hygiene habits. Finally, if the spots are due to cavities, they will only go away if a dentist fills the cavities.
Why do my teeth get plaque so quickly?
There are a few possible reasons for this. First, it could be due to poor oral hygiene habits. This means you’re not brushing and flossing your teeth properly or frequently. Second, it could be due to eating sugary and starchy foods. These types of foods contribute to plaque formation. Third, it could be due to certain medical conditions like diabetes or gingivitis. If you have one of these conditions, it’s important to see a dentist so they can help you manage the condition and prevent plaque buildup.
Does whitening teeth make white spots worse?
Yes, teeth whitening products can make white spots worse. This is because the bleaching agents in these products can cause further damage to the enamel. If you use teeth whitening products and notice that the white stains on your teeth are getting worse, you should stop using the product and see your dentist.
Why did I get white spots on my teeth overnight?
There are a few possible reasons for this. First, it could be due to eating sugary or starchy foods. These types of foods contribute to plaque formation. Second, it could be due to certain medical conditions like diabetes or gingivitis. If you have one of these conditions, it’s essential to see a dentist so they can help you manage the disease and prevent plaque buildup. Finally, it could be due to the use of teeth whitening products. If you’ve recently used a teeth whitening product and notice that the white spots on your teeth are getting worse, you should stop using the product and see your dentist.
Are white stains normal on teeth?
No, white spots are not considered normal on teeth. If you have white stains on your teeth, it’s essential to see your dentist so they can determine the underlying cause and provide treatment if necessary.