Causes And Solutions For White Spots On Your Teeth
Our Greenwich dental team examine this not uncommon problem.
Other than their regular appointments at the Confidental Clinic, patients generally come to see us when there is an obvious problem, such as a toothache or a broken tooth.
From time to time though, a patient will make an appointment because they have noticed something a little unusual with their teeth. One of these is when they have noticed white spots on them.
Are white spots serious?
Although it is sensible to have them checked out by your dentist, having white spots on your teeth is rarely a cause for serious medical concern. They can have a number of causes, and solutions can range from a change in lifestyle choices, through to cosmetic dental treatments.
The following are some common causes:
Dental fluorosis
Dental fluorosis usually occurs when we are young and develops before the teeth appear through the gums. A similar condition occurs when the enamel does not develop properly in its early stages. This usually corrects itself over time, but care should be taken as it does increase the risk of tooth decay.
Poor dental hygiene
If you eat too many sugary or acidic foods, especially when wearing a dental brace, you are more likely to see these spots. Make sure to clean your teeth well both at home and through seeing a hygienist for a thorough scale and polish treatment every six months or so.
Treatments
Aside from the spots appearing when the patient is very young, and which usually naturally rectify themselves, they can spoil the appearance of an otherwise attractive smile for more mature patients. For this reason, many people will seek treatment to correct this problem.
At the Confidental Clinic in Greenwich, we are able to offer a number of procedures that can restore the appearance of your teeth as follows:
Teeth whitening
By using our custom home whitening treatment, not only can we whiten teeth that are stained or discoloured through age, but also customise the treatment so that it reduces the visibility of the whiter spots. As your teeth will gradually darken again over time, you may need to repeat the treatment at intervals.
Dental veneers
Especially where the white spots are large and fairly prominent, you may wish to consider the use of dental veneers to give your tooth colour a long lasting consistency. Porcelain veneers will last for around ten years, and often more, and are easily replaced providing that you have looked after the general health of the teeth they are attached to.
Topical Fluoride
Depending on the circumstances, topical fluoride may be applied to the teeth. In some situations, this can help to develop the enamel, reducing the problem of lighter patches on your teeth.
Whatever the problem, our Greenwich dentists are always available if you have any concerns about your teeth, whether practical or cosmetic. You can make an appointment to see them by calling the Confidental Clinic on 020 8858 1422.