When You Spot White Spots On Your Teeth
If you've noticed a white spot or two on your teeth, don't panic. The cause of white spots are numerous and it's important to understand what caused them and how to deal with them. Read on to find out more.
White Spots Might Be a Warning Sign of Decay
White spots may appear on teeth that are decayed and the next thing to expect might be a deterioration in the tooth. Known as white spot lesions, these spots are small but appear chalky in color and appearance. In this instance, a white spot could be the early warning sign of a cavity. The sooner the cavity is addressed, the better your chances are to decrease permanent damage to the tooth.
When Bacteria Runs Amok
Another frequent, and unfortunate, dental issue that might first present with white spots is gum diseases like gingivitis and more. The foods and drinks you consume can lead to acid in the mouth. Additionally, bacteria are always present in the mouth but can increase when too many carbohydrates are consumed. Acids lead to increased levels of bacteria in the mouth. Then, plaque forms on the teeth. This sticky coating sets up the perfect environment for gum disease. A byproduct of gum disease is a loss of healthy minerals teeth need to stay strong. That mineral loss can present as white spots on the teeth. Gum diseases can do more than cause bad breath and cavities, it can lead to a loss of bone in the jaw area which destabilizes the lower portion of the face. That deterioration can lead to an aging, droopy look to the face. If you spot a white spot, dealing early with gum disease can preserve both your smile and your teeth.
How to Cope With White Spots
As soon as the cause of the white spots is determined and a treatment plan created, you can speak to your dentist about getting rid of the spots. These spots, however, involve the structure of your teeth and cannot be easily removed. Your dentist may advise you that the appearance of the spot can be improved. If only a few teeth are affected, an abrasive procedure could reduce the appearance. If the spots are greater in number, are large, or the enamel is showing signs of serious damage, caps or crowns may be necessary. Veneers are another option if your budget allows. To find out more, speak to your dentist as soon as possible about your white spots.
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