Many people find white spots on the teeth unattractive. Below are some of the causes and solutions of these white spots.

Causes

Here are the common causes of white spots on the teeth.

Fluorosis

Fluorosis is a cosmetic dental problem that arises due to overexposure to fluoride. The fluoride causes some parts of the enamel to be whiter than other parts. Fluorosis typically arises around the time a child's permanent teeth develop.

Acidic Erosion

You can also develop white spots on the teeth due to acidic erosion of the enamel. You might experience acidic erosion if bacteria attack your teeth or if you constantly eat or drink acidic foods. The acids attack some sections of the enamel, leading to an uneven coloring of the teeth.

Dental Braces

Dental braces, especially metal braces, can erode some parts of the teeth. The eroded parts will have different shades of white from the other parts. You might notice the discoloration after your orthodontic treatment is over.

Medications

Some medications increase the risk of white spots on the teeth. Antibiotics such as amoxicillin increase the risk of fluorosis, which leads to white spots on the teeth.

Solutions

You don't have to live with white spots on your teeth. The following measures can help you get rid of the spots.

Dental Veneers

You can use dental veneers to cover your teeth surfaces and hide the white spots. Dental veneers are extremely thin materials, mainly porcelain or composite, that the dentist attaches to the affected teeth surfaces.

Enamel Microabrasion

Enamel microabrasion removes the white spots mechanically. The treatment involves using abrasive agents on the surfaces of the teeth to get rid of the white spots. A dentist must administer the treatment because you risk weakening the teeth or making them hypersensitive if you remove too much enamel.

Dental Bleaching

Dental bleaching can also help because the white spots affect the surface of the teeth — the enamel. The bleaching agent also targets the enamel, whitening it to an even color to get rid of the white spots.

Fluoride Application

The topical application of fluoride can help get rid of white spots caused by enamel erosion. The fluoride helps to demineralize the teeth — building up the lost enamel minerals.

As you can see, you don't have to live with white spots on the teeth if you find them unsightly. Consult your dentist for help if you have these cosmetic defects. The dentist will examine your teeth and the extent of the problem and prescribe the best treatment for you. Look for a family dentist in your area.