Have you noticed white spots forming on your teeth? While it may be distressing, a trip to the dentist can alleviate their appearance (and the stress that comes with them).
But what causes them?
There are several reasons you or your child might have white spots on your teeth. With some, the only cause for concern is cosmetic. Others indicate issues with your oral health and will require dental intervention.
Fluorosis
Fluorosis is a common cause for white streaks on the teeth of children. It develops when a child gets too much fluoride while the teeth are developing below the surface of the gum.
It usually happens when kids are exposed to too many products containing fluoride (mouthwash, toothpaste) or when kids swallow toothpaste instead of spitting it out. Sometimes, it’s just a result of geography – if fluoride levels in the soil nearby are higher.
It’s not typically cause for concern, but it’s not a bad idea to check in with your Enamel Dental dentist to be sure.
Calcium Deposits
Another common cause of white spots on teeth is calcium or tartar buildup. This occurs when the soft bacterial film that forms on teeth every day picks up calcium and minerals from saliva and hardens on the tooth surface. Your daily brushing won’t remove it from your teeth. Over time, this buildup can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease.
You can read more about how tartar forms on the Canadian Dental Association webpage.
How do I get rid of calcium deposits on my teeth?
A visit to your Enamel Dental dentist will get you on the right path. Cleaning techniques may be sufficient to reduce the appearance of the white spot on your teeth. Others prefer to whiten their teeth to further reduce any signs of the white spots.