How to Get Rid of White Spots on Teeth

White spots are lesions that can form on the teeth for many reasons, including disease, poor dental habits, diet, and environmental factors. You can have an excellent oral hygiene routine and still develop white spots on your teeth.

While white spots on teeth can be unsightly, they typically don’t indicate a serious issue. Once your dentist determines the cause, treatment can mask or reverse the lesions.

What Causes White Spots on Teeth?

The most common causes of white spots on teeth include:

1. Fluorosis 

Dental fluorosis occurs when you consume an excessive amount of fluoride. While fluoride has many benefits, too much can cause white lines or streaks on the tooth enamel.

Fluorosis is a cosmetic issue, not a health concern. It’s most common in children under 8 years old. It can happen due to swallowing toothpaste, drinking overly fluoridated water, or taking an incorrectly high dosage of fluoride supplements. 

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2. Bacterial Overgrowth (Demineralization)

When bacterial plaque accumulates, it can erode enamel and create white spots. This is called demineralization.

Demineralization is caused by poor oral hygiene. The resulting white spots are usually signs of early cavities that a dentist can treat if caught quickly.

3. Enamel Hypoplasia

Enamel hypoplasia is a dental condition when the tooth enamel is thinner or less mineralized than usual. This condition can cause white spots to appear on the teeth.

Enamel hypoplasia is caused by numerous factors, including:

• Vitamin deficiencies
• High fevers due to illnesses
• Maternal exposure to smoking or certain medications during pregnancy
• Premature/preterm birth

If your hypoplasia is severe, your dentist may recommend a sealant, composite filling, or crown.

4. Braces

Wearing braces can make it harder to clean the crevices where plaque accumulates. Plaque buildup can cause decalcification, leading to white spots on the teeth.

Practicing diligent oral hygiene while you have braces is essential. You should also visit your dentist regularly to screen for issues like decalcification.

5. Certain Medications

Certain antibiotics can interfere with how the body absorbs nutrients and weaken enamel, making teeth more susceptible to bacteria and white spots. 

6. Lifestyle Factors

Other lifestyle factors can influence the development of white spots on your teeth, including:

• Vitamin deficiencies — A diet low in calcium and phosphorus and high in acidic foods and drinks can significantly weaken the teeth and cause white spots.
• Mouth breathing while sleeping — Breathing through your mouth can cause your teeth to become dehydrated, leading to white spots.
• Poor oral hygiene — Not caring for your teeth can lead to plaque build-up and demineralization, manifesting as white spots.

How Can You Prevent White Spots?

By adopting healthy habits and being mindful of certain factors, you can significantly reduce your risk of white spots. Here are our tips you can follow:

• Practice good oral hygiene ⁠— Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and don't forget to floss daily. This removes plaque, the main cause of demineralization and white spots.
• Use fluoride in moderation ⁠— While fluoride strengthens enamel, too much of a good thing can lead to fluorosis. Use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for children and ensure they don't swallow it.
• Make diet changes ⁠— Limit your intake of acidic and sugary foods and drinks. These can erode enamel and create a breeding ground for plaque.
• Avoid mouth breathing ⁠— If you tend to sleep with your mouth open, try to address the issue. Mouth breathing can dry out your mouth, increasing the risk of demineralization.
• Get regular dental check-ups ⁠— Your dentist can detect early signs of white spots and provide preventive treatments.
• Improve your dental tools ⁠— If you have braces, consider using an electric toothbrush or a Waterpik for more effective cleaning around brackets and wires.

Treatment Options for Existing White Spots

If you already have white spots, don't worry. There are various treatment options available, ranging from simple home remedies to professional dental procedures.

• Oil pulling ⁠— Swishing coconut oil in your mouth can help reduce plaque and bacteria.
• Baking soda rinse ⁠— Baking soda can gently polish teeth and minimize the appearance of minor white spots.

• Enamel microabrasion ⁠— This procedure gently removes a thin layer of enamel to reduce the visibility of white spots.
• Teeth whitening ⁠— Whitening can help blend the color of your teeth, making white spots less noticeable.
• Resin infiltration (ICON) ⁠— This minimally invasive treatment uses resin to fill in the porous enamel and mask white spots.
• Dental veneers ⁠— Veneers are thin coverings placed over the front of teeth to conceal more severe white spots.

How Can Regular Dental Check-ups Help in Managing White Spots?

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for preventing and managing white spots. Dentists can identify white spots in their early stages, allowing for prompt intervention.

A thorough cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of demineralization. Your dentist can even provide personalized advice on oral hygiene practices and treatments.

If needed, your dentist can apply topical fluoride to strengthen enamel and remineralize weakened areas. By following preventive measures, exploring treatment options, and maintaining regular dental check-ups, you can effectively manage white spots on your teeth and enjoy a healthy smile.