There are several myths about general dentistry out there. These misconceptions present a risk because they might prevent you from getting the proper dental care that you need. This article dispels a few common general dentistry myths so you can make the best decision about your dental health.
General dentistry myths
Common misconceptions related to general dentistry include the following:
A dental visit is only necessary when dealing with tooth pain
When it comes to dental care, prevention is always better than undergoing treatment. Many people do not realize that identifying and treating a tooth problem early is considerably more accessible and less expensive than waiting until it is too late.
It is advisable to visit a dentist twice a year for regular cleanings and exams, even if there is no discomfort. Although some dental problems are asymptomatic, they can still lead to infection and require treatment. Delaying the process might mean needing more expensive and invasive treatment. Furthermore, the probability of saving the tooth might be lower at a later date.
Flossing might result in gaps between the teeth
Flossing does not cause gaps to form between the teeth. It helps prevent decay between the teeth. Flossing removes food particles from between your teeth and gums, helping to keep them healthy and eliminating dangerous bacteria. Bleeding gums may occur when patients first start flossing, but after a few weeks of consistent flossing, the bleeding should stop. If the bleeding persists after flossing for a while, the gum disease may be more serious, and it is better to visit the dentist to identify the cause and get treatment.
Baby teeth are not that important
The importance of baby teeth cannot be overstated. They provide permanent teeth enough room to line up below the gums and grow inappropriately. If not treated promptly, cavities in an infant's teeth can result in tooth loss much earlier than is typical, leaving a gap. If this occurs, a dentist can provide an artificial space maintainer until the permanent tooth emerges. That said, the best natural space maintainers are baby teeth.
Therefore, it is critical to keep a child's teeth in the best possible condition. If a child fails to care for their baby teeth, they may not take oral care seriously as adults, leading to more severe and costly dental problems as they become older.
One can brush at any time of the day
While dental professionals recommend brushing at least twice a day, brushing at a certain time can influence oral health. The salivary glands produce less saliva during sleep. Saliva flow is higher during the day and offers a cleaning effect that is not available at night.
People with dry mouths have more cavities because they have less natural saliva to clean their mouth and remove food particles. Failure to clean the teeth before going to bed means the food particles remain on the teeth throughout the night, contributing to tooth decay over time. Brushing the teeth first thing in the morning helps prevent decay and foul breath. Additionally, food plays an important influence in dental health. Brushing soon after ingesting sugar or carbohydrate-rich foods and drinks is suggested to avoid cavities.
A healthy tongue will have a pink or red color and a smooth texture. A tongue with a different coloration or texture may be a sign of disease. A green tongue can be a sign of several serious medical conditions.
What are the potential causes of a green tongue?
A green tongue can have many different causes. Often, a green tongue starts off as a white tongue, but changes to green with time after eating, drinking, or taking certain medications.
Below are some common causes of a green tongue:
Geographic tongue
Geographic tongue causes harmless lesions on the tongue that may change color. Initially, lesions caused by geographic tongue may appear red with raised white borders, but those borders may change to a green color over time.
Other symptoms include:
irregular lesions on the tongue that are smooth and vary in shape and size
lesions on the tongue that appear to “migrate” or move to one area of the tongue to another over time (over days or weeks)
lesions that appear and disappear frequently
some mild feelings of discomfort or burning on the tongue or in the mouth
Another symptom of geographic tongue is extra sensitivity on the tongue, especially to certain substances. These substances may include:
cigarette smoke
toothpaste
mouthwashes
sugar or sweet food
foods that are very spicy or acidic
Hairy tongue syndrome
Hairy tongue occurs when a certain type of cell on the tongue doesn’t shed as it should. This gives the tongue a rough or “hairy” appearance. This rough surface creates a place for bacteria and yeast to thrive. This can discolor your tongue, causing a green hue.
A color change is even more common after eating certain types of foods or drinks, or using certain products. Other symptoms of hairy tongue include:
a burning sensation on the tongue
a gagging or tickling sensation caused by the lengthened cells on the tongue
bad breath caused by bacteria or yeast growing on the tongue
abnormal taste on the tongue, or a lack of taste caused by covered-up taste buds
Lichen planus
Lichen planus is a rash-like condition that can cause tongue discoloration. Usually lichen planus on the tongue occurs as a white color. It can change green when bacteria or yeast begins to grow on it, certain foods or drinks are consumed, or certain products are used. Other symptoms of lichen planus include:
swirling white lesions in the mouth, which might be painful or cause a burning sensation
white lesions in the mouth that change color due to bacteria, yeast, food, drinks, or products used in the mouth
Oral thrush
Oral thrush is an overgrowth of yeast on the tongue and inside the mouth. It’s caused by an overgrowth of fungus naturally found in the mouth. This fungal overgrowth looks white, but can turn green over time as the infection sets in. Other symptoms of oral thrush include:
white bumps on the tongue or tonsils
bleeding when the bumps in the mouth are scraped by the teeth or a toothbrush
pain at the location of the bumps in the mouth
trouble swallowing
In infants, symptoms of oral thrush include trouble feeding, fussiness, and irritability.
How is green tongue treated?
The treatment for green tongue depends on its cause. In most cases, the cause is bacteria, fungus, or yeast. In these cases, treatment may include antifungal medication. Options include:
fluconazole
clotrimazole
nystatin
itraconazole
These at-home tips can also help your tongue recover from a bacterial, fungal, or yeast overgrowth:
Brush your teeth softly to avoid irritating lesions in the mouth.
Replace your toothbrush every day until the infection goes away.
Avoid mouthwashes or sprays.
Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution.
Keep your blood sugar levels healthy if you have diabetes.
Eat plain yogurt to help rebalance the levels of good bacteria in your body.
When green tongue is caused by inflammation, treatment may include:
corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
antihistamines to reduce inflammation and stop an allergic reaction
over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil)
For green tongue caused by inflammation, avoid foods and drinks that cause irritation to the mouth. Also avoid products that irritate your mouth, such as flavored toothpastes.
When the cause of green tongue is cancer, treatment depends on the stage, type, and exact location of the cancer. Treatment may include:
surgery
radiation therapy
chemotherapy
targeted therapy
nutritional therapy
For all cases of green tongue, proper treatment involves good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, and ideally after every meal. Flossing is another important part of good oral hygiene.
Complications of green tongue
While green tongue has many causes, it’s often a sign of a bacterial, fungal, or yeast overgrowth. If there are lesions in the mouth, these substances can cause serious infections. It’s important to seek treatment for a green tongue right away.
What’s the outlook?
In most cases, green tongue will go away quickly with proper treatment. Be sure to follow your doctor’s treatment plan to ensure the best possible outcome.
Several published studies have found that the use of aspirin, if chewed, can contribute to the cause of tooth erosion. These studies analyzed both laboratory studies, where extracted teeth were placed in a water and aspirin mixture, and clinical case studies of people who took six doses of aspirin powder per day for a two-to-three year period. In the laboratory study, scientists observed changes in the surface of both the enamel, outer covering of the teeth, and dentin, the layer of tooth structure under the enamel, of the extracted teeth tested.1
In the clinical case study, the top surface of the teeth, also called the occlusal surface, showed severe erosion of the lower molars and premolars and on the lower anterior teeth on the tongue side. The researchers concluded that the aspirin powder caused the tooth erosion.2
Another study examined 42 children with rheumatoid arthritis. The participants were split into two groups, those who chewed aspirin, and those who swallowed it. The study found that the 25 children who chewed aspirin tablets experienced severe erosion of the upper and lower primary molars, and their first permanent molars. The 17 children who swallowed the aspirin tablets experienced no erosion of their teeth. The scientists concluded that the tooth erosion these children developed was due to chewing the aspirin tablets.3
These studies show that aspirin can affect the structure of the tooth surface depending how the analgesic is taken and can cause irritation to the soft tissue in the mouth. Consult with your dentist and physician if required doses of aspirin are recommended for a medical condition.
First of all, sudden tooth sensitivity isn’t uncommon. If you’ve ever felt a sudden pain in your mouth from a particularly cold breeze or a sip of coffee, that may be from tooth sensitivity.
It’s important to monitor these symptoms though since sensitive teeth may also be a sign of a developing or existing cavity.
Also known by its medical term “dentin hypersensitivity”, tooth sensitivity is exactly what it sounds like. It’s pain or discomfort in the teeth in response to certain stimuli, which is commonly hot or cold temperatures.
Most Often Causes of Sudden Tooth Sensitivity
The most often cause of sudden tooth sensitivity is the thinner enamel they have on their teeth. Enamel is the protective outer layer and coating of a tooth that protects it.
If it’s worn down enough, your teeth get more sensitive and are also prone to other issues. Unfortunately, some people are just more prone to tooth sensitivity than others through genetics as well.
Aside from thin enamel being passed to you genetically, tooth sensitivity can also be caused by other factors. These include the following:
Grinding teeth while sleeping – this is one of the most common causes, and can be mitigated by the use of a nightguard or mouthpiece worn each night. An underlying factor may also be stress causing you to grind your teeth more regularly.
Brushing your teeth too hard – another common cause, there’s a balance to brushing effectively. You should be applying just enough pressure you can feel the bristles on your gums.
Consistently eating or drinking acidic foods or drinks – all that acid in the food might not bother your stomach too much, but it will definitely wear away at your teeth. Reduce your consumption of these foods to avoid wearing away too much at your enamel.
Effectively Treating Sudden Tooth Sensitivity
Treating sensitive teeth really depends on the severity of your pain. For those experiencing just mild discomfort, over-the-counter pain medication will likely be enough.
Look for toothpaste and toothbrushes for sensitive teeth. There are many good options to choose from for electric toothbrushes that have specific modes dedicated to making it easier on your teeth. Softer toothbrushes will also help.
Switching over to these treatment options will often take about a week to truly see the effect so be patient.
Cavities are very common in both adults and children. In fact, tooth decay is the world’s second most prevalent disease, after the common cold. We hope that none of our patients ever have to experience the pain and inconvenience of a cavity. However, if you do get a cavity in your lifetime, it’s important to know what to expect. Cavities give many warning signs before progressing to the next stage. We’ve outlined the life cycle of a cavity, so that you can spot one developing, and prevent it from causing serious damage.
#1 The early signs of decay
Tooth decay is caused when enamel is worn down by acid in the mouth. Smoking, regularly consuming acidic drinks and sugary foods, and irregular dental check-ups all increase the likeliness of dental decay. When you don’t practice good oral hygiene, the sugars on your teeth build up, and bacteria begins to feed off them and produce acid. These bacteria, food particles and saliva combine to form plaque and dull spots on the surface of the tooth.
At this stage, so long as you practice regular cleaning and good oral hygiene, it’s fairly easy to get rid of this plaque and stop these dull spots from forming into a cavity.
#2 The damage of a tooth
The plaque starts to thin as the enamel wears away. Eventually this hole will go deep enough to break the enamel surface and expose the dentin underneath. This is when the hole officially becomes a cavity. From here, the tooth will decay more rapidly, and the cavity will get larger and deeper. Cavities at this stage usually aren’t painful. This is why regular check-ups are essential, as often you won’t know if a cavity is developing.
#3 The beginning of pain
After the tooth erodes the enamel, it starts to erode the dentin. This will bring the nerve of the tooth closer to the surface, and will make your tooth extremely sensitive. As soon as you feel discomfort you should visit your dentist. As long as the decay hasn’t gotten past all of the dentin, you can still repair the tooth with a filling.
#4 The start of infection
If food and bacteria get caught in a cavity, it can be difficult to get them out. If these food particles stay in the tooth for too long, it can lead to infection – of both the tooth and of the surrounding bone. As you can imagine, this is incredibly painful! If this happens you should visit your dentist immediately to clear up the infection. A root canal – or even tooth extraction – might have to be performed as a last resort.
#5 The final treatment
As you can see, it’s far better to get treated for a cavity early on. While small cavities can be easily dealt with, large ones require much more extensive treatment, and end up being more painful and expensive for you. The best way to prevent cavities is by sticking to a good oral hygiene routine, and by visiting your dentist regularly. If you are experiencing any pain, or if it’s about time for a checkup, book your appointment with Whistler Dental today.
The gums are often a neglected part of your oral health routine. Although you may brush regularly and see your dentist for scheduled checkups, your teeth usually steal the show. Even when you notice your gums are sore or swollen, you might mistake the pain for a cavity. But gum health is extremely important, and should be made a top priority when caring for your oral health. After all, this tissue is trusted to protect your teeth and keep them healthy, and while periodontal disease is the culprit in many cases, sensitive gums can be a symptom of other oral irritants, too.
Symptoms of Gum Sensitivity
Swelling and tenderness are often signs of gingivitis, but it's not the only condition that can leave your gums feeling less than robust. It's understandable to assume tender gums are the result of gingivitis, but this isn't always the case. When your gums become sensitive to hot and cold – or inflamed and sore after applying moderate pressure (when brushing your teeth, for example) – gingivitis is just one of the possible causes. Consider your symptoms to see if it's the result of one of the following surprising causes of sensitive gums:
1. Brushing Too Hard
Some individuals' gums can be sensitive to pressure, particularly when suffering from gum disease, so brushing too hard or using a highly abrasive toothpaste can leave them feeling irritable. You don't need a stiff toothbrush to get a great clean; rather, it's about technique. Consider a soft-bristled toothbrush which uses softer bristles and polishing cups that allow you to focus on brushing more gently. Massage your gums in back and forth motions rather than brush harshly to remove bacteria that may have already calcified into tartar (which needs dental assistance). And, if you do notice your toothpaste irritates your gums, consider one made specifically for sensitive mouths.
2. Hormonal Changes
Believe it or not, changes in your hormones can actually result in sensitive gums as well. Gums become more sensitive, according to the American Dental Association (ADA), because hormone fluctuations – such as those common during pregnancy – can change the way your body interacts with the bacteria you introduce to your mouth. This can result in gum and tooth decay, so it's important to see your dentist as scheduled during pregnancy, and mention any changes in oral health to your OB/GYN to avoid lasting damage.
3. Food or Appliance Irritation
Certain acidic foods and new oral appliances can leave your gums feeling sensitive and sore, respectively. Acidic foods, in particular, can cause irritation and even visible sores on the tender tissue of the gumline. Canker sores and even gums that are recessed can be an unfortunate side-effect to consuming things like citrus fruit, soda and sugary brands of yogurt in excess. Therefore, try eliminating acidic foods from your diet, and see if your sensitivity goes away over the next few days. The same goes for oral appliances: Braces, retainers, dentures and mouth guards can all tug at your gumline, leaving it extra tender if they've temporarily exposed more sensitive underlying tissue. In some cases, this sensitivity will go away as your mouth adapts to the appliance. If your gums continue to hurt, however, see your dentist or orthodontist to ensure the right fit with less sensitivity.
Gum disease is often the reason for periodontal soreness, but it's not always the reason for your sensitivity. Gums that are sensitive without bleeding might be trying to tell you a different story. Before attributing the pain to gingivitis, consider some of the other causes – you might be surprised at which of your habits could be causing sore gums.
If you have a cavity, you are likely exploring your options, including metal-free fillings. Before you choose these fillings, you want to learn the benefits. Find out why so many people choose this dental restoration option.
Benefits of metal-free fillings
Metal-free, or composite, fillings usually consist of a plastic and ceramic compound. This is a departure from metal fillings that are normally made of silver and mercury. The composite material offers various benefits to dental patients.
A natural look
Metal fillings are noticeable when people talk, eat and smile. Many people feel self-conscious about flashing metal fillings to the world. Composite resin fillings are tooth-colored, so this dental restoration is not noticeable. Many people prefer the natural look these fillings offer.
Not impacted by temperature fluctuations
People with metal fillings often experience sensitivity when the fillings are exposed to heat or cold. Also, these fillings can contract or contrast based on temperature changes. This is very difficult on the teeth. When people have composite fillings, they can eat and drink hot and cold items without sensitivity. Also, these fillings maintain the proper shape, even when exposed to extreme temperatures.
Less drilling
To place metal fillings, the dentist must first drill a large hole in the tooth. The dentist has to remove some of the healthy tooth structure to make room to accommodate metal fillings. The same is not true for metal-free fillings. The composite material is flexible and easily bonds with the tooth. That means less drilling is required to place the filling. It is always a good idea to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible, so this is an important benefit.
Increases the strength of the tooth
Composite fillings attach to the tooth. This improves the tooth’s overalls strength. It also ensures that the filling remains in place instead of shifting.
Metal fillings do not bond with the tooth. These fillings simply cover up a hole. This weakens the tooth’s structure and makes it prone to cracking and breaking. The filling can also shift out of place, requiring replacement.
Easier to repair
Fillings fail from time to time, regardless of the material used for the restoration. Repairing composite fillings is quite simple. The dentist simply adds additional composite to the tooth.
Repairing metal fillings is much more difficult. The dentist must remove the entire filling and place a new one. In many cases, the dentist has to remove some of the healthy tooth structure once again. This further weakens the tooth.
Creates a tight seal
Filling a tooth does not protect it from decay. Bacteria can still eat away at the tooth and cause a cavity. However, it is more difficult for that to happen with a composite filling. The filling forms a tight seal so decay cannot get underneath it. Metal fillings do not seal the tooth as well. That makes the tooth more prone to additional decay.
Do you want composite fillings?
Metal-free fillings provide lots of benefits. Composite fillings look natural, are not affected by changes in temperature and require less drilling to place. These fillings also make teeth stronger, are easier to repair than metal fillings and create a tight seal that protects against additional decay. Talk to your dentist to see if you are a good candidate for composite fillings.
Teeth may look simple from the outside, but their anatomy is surprisingly complex. The Indian Dental Association explains that the tooth is a structure formed by the combination of different kinds of tissues. Each tissue is formed by different cell types that work in a well coordinated and co-dependent way. The hard outer layer of the teeth is known as enamel. The sensitive tissue directly underneath the enamel is called dentine. At the centre of the teeth is the pulp cavity. This critical cavity contains the nerves and blood supply that keep the teeth alive.
Parts of the Pulp Cavity
Pulp cavities contain two main parts: the pulp chamber and the root canals. The pulp chamber is the upper section of the cavity contained within the crown of the tooth. The root canals are the lower section of the cavity found within the tooth roots. According to a review published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, the number of roots may vary from a tooth on the upper jaw (also known as a maxillary tooth) to a tooth on the lower jaw (also known as a mandibular tooth). The number of root chambers in the pulp cavity may vary from tooth to tooth, as well.
Dental Issues Affecting the Pulp Cavity
While pulp cavities are located deep within the teeth, they're not immune to dental problems. Large cavities or cracks in the teeth allow bacteria to reach the pulp, resulting in an infection and possibly a pocket of pus called a tooth abscess. Symptoms of a tooth abscess may include a severe toothache, facial swelling or a fever. If you have signs of a tooth abscess, see your dentist immediately.Cavities and dental trauma aren't the only situations that can affect the pulp cavities. The blood vessels within the pulp can become inflamed due to stressors like repeated dental procedures or clenching and grinding the teeth, a condition known as bruxism. A dentist can evaluate the affected teeth and recommend an appropriate treatment. In some cases, the pulp inflammation goes away once the source of irritation is gone. In other cases, the pulp has been damaged beyond repair and needs to be removed.
Caring for the Pulp Cavities
There are many things you can do to keep your pulp cavities healthy, including following a good oral hygiene routine. Remember to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once per day. A good oral hygiene routine helps remove food particles and plaque from the teeth, which helps prevent cavities.It's also important to protect your teeth from trauma that could injure the pulp cavity. If you play sports, wear an appropriate sports mouth guard. If you clench your teeth and your dentist has recommended a bruxism mouth guard, remember to wear it at night.In addition, see your dentist regularly for check-ups. At these visits, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned to remove plaque and tartar. The dentist can also thoroughly examine your teeth for problems like cavities that could affect the pulp cavity if left untreated.Pulp cavities are an important part of the teeth's structure. To protect the pulp cavities, follow a good oral hygiene routine, protect the teeth from trauma and see a dentist regularly.
It can be hard to determine what teeth are baby teeth and which ones are permanent. Your baby's first tooth makes its grand debut around 6 months of age, and by two to three years old, all 20 baby teeth should have erupted in their mouth. Six years old is when you can expect your children to lose their first baby teeth and have permanent teeth peek through. Keep the tooth fairy on standby; this process of permanent teeth replacing baby teeth will continue until your child is 12 or 13.
As your child gets older, it can be hard to tell the difference between baby teeth and permanent teeth. Having teeth of both types is called a mixed dentition. The Indian Dental Association's tooth eruption chart is a good guide that helps parents know approximately when their child's baby teeth will appear, when they will shed them and when their adult teeth will come in. The chart helps you distinguish which teeth belong to the first or second set.
Importance of Baby Teeth
Baby teeth, also called primary teeth, play an important role in guaranteeing your child has a beautiful smile as an adult. Baby teeth hold space in your child's jaw so that the permanent teeth will come in properly. If you notice small spaces between your child's baby teeth, do not worry, this is quite natural, with the spaces there to allow extra room for the permanent teeth.
When baby teeth are extensively decayed or injured, the permanent tooth underneath can become infected or damaged. If baby teeth have to be removed because of decay or injury, other teeth can drift and block the permanent tooth from coming in. The permanent tooth may even struggle to align correctly.
Protecting Baby Teeth
According to the Indian Dental Association, you should start practicing healthy oral hygiene habits with your child early in order to keep baby teeth healthy and cavity free. Begin by cleaning your baby's gums with a wet gauze pad after feedings. Once those teeth appear, prevent early decay by limiting their bedtime bottle to water.
Carefully brush all new baby teeth twice a day with a small, soft brush. Keep in mind that your child may not be able to thoroughly brush or floss on their own until seven or eight years of age. Start out with products such as Colgate Kids toothbrush and toothpaste, which kids can continue to use when they take responsibility for brushing themselves. Before using fluoride toothpaste, check with your dentist on how much to use, and whether or not your child needs fluoride supplements.
Dentists strongly suggest scheduling your baby's first dental appointment before her first birthday. As your child gets older, you may be encouraged to use other preventive measures such as regular cleanings, fluoride treatments and dental sealants. Your dentist will also keep a close watch on the development and eruption of your child's permanent teeth to confirm that everything is occurring normally.
Knowing what teeth are baby teeth is just as important as seeing the permanent ones come in. A good first set will give way to a second that is just as healthy. By starting regular oral hygiene practices early, you can keep your child's teeth cavity free so no baby tooth is lost before it starts to wiggle.
Dull, white spots on the surface of your teeth are usually the result of a loss of minerals in the enamel layer of the tooth. It is common for dentists and patients alike to notice white spots on teeth after completing orthodontic treatments, but there are other common causes of white spots that may be less familiar.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Cavity-causing bacteria love to grow in highly acidic environments, such as in your mouth. Inadequate brushing and flossing techniques enable harmful bacteria to flourish. Braces, dental devices, and appliances can all make it more challenging to achieve a thorough clean during oral hygiene efforts. It's imperative to be vigilant about brushing, particularly while wearing braces or oral devices, to keep cavity-causing bacteria at bay. Poor oral hygiene can enable bacteria to strip essential minerals from teeth, causing white spots that progress to full cavities.
Dental Fluorosis
Fluoride is typically thought of as a good thing in the world of oral health; however, a condition called fluorosis can happen if you're exposed to too much fluoride. Those most susceptible to suffer from fluorosis are children as their smaller bodies have lower capacities for fluoride. Carefully supervising children while they brush their teeth is critical as all toothpastes that contain fluoride can be harmful in excess. Of course, fluoride in proper amounts is essential for the overall health of teeth, especially in childhood when teeth are developing and erupting. Always check with your child's dentist if you have any concerns about whether you or your child are showing any warning signs of excessive fluoride consumption.
Lack of Nutrition
A diet that lacks calcium deprives your body of the fundamental building blocks of healthy tooth enamel. Several minerals are part of a healthy and balanced diet that helps to build up tooth enamel. A lack of these minerals can mean that your teeth suffer and develop white, demineralized spots. As an example of how nutrients affect your smile, celiac disease causes the intestines to malfunction and not absorb nutrients, which leads to demineralized white spots on your teeth.
Illness and Medications
Some medicines are essential in keeping our bodies healthy. Unfortunately, some medications have also been directly linked to the development of white spots on tooth enamel. Certain antibiotics are not approved for use in children as a result. Never share prescriptions, and only use medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you do end up with white spots on your teeth after medical treatment, talk with your dentist about treating them.
Genetics
Much like other physical aspects, genetics also play a role in whether or not you are likely to develop white spots on our teeth. If white spot lesions run in your family, you should take extra precautions to avoid them.
Removing White Spots On Teeth
White spot lesions are a permanent change in the structure of your tooth, and as a result, they're mostly impossible to remove. Your dentist's ability to reduce the appearance of white spots will be based on several factors, including:
The size of the white spots
The underlying cause
Deterioration of the tooth enamel
The overall quantity of spots on the tooth enamel
Regardless of Cause, Don't Delay Treatment
If you begin to see white spots, it's essential to visit your dentist as quickly as possible to prevent additional problems, such as cavities, from occurring. One of the easiest treatments in correcting white spots is micro-abrasion. In the case that your white spots are the result of something more serious, your dentist may recommend other therapies.
