White spots on your teeth can be annoying. They might show up after braces, from eating certain foods, or even because of something that happened when you were a kid. These spots don’t always hurt, but they can make your smile look uneven or patchy.
So what causes them? And how can you get rid of them without drills or pain? Let’s break it all down.
What Causes White Spots on Teeth?
White spots are usually signs that the enamel on your teeth has changed. This outer layer protects your teeth, but if it gets weak, it can look different.
Poor Brushing Habits
If you don’t brush well, plaque can build up on your teeth. Over time, this can lead to spots where the enamel starts to wear down. This often happens around braces if brushing is tricky.
Too Much Fluoride
Fluoride helps keep your teeth strong, but too much can leave marks. This is called dental fluorosis and usually happens in kids when their adult teeth are still forming.
Acidic or Sugary Foods
Eating a lot of acidic foods (like citrus) or sugary snacks can wear down enamel. This makes teeth more likely to form white spots.
Health Problems or Medications
Sometimes white spots are linked to high fevers, certain medicines, or illnesses that affect how enamel grows. This is called enamel hypoplasia.
Whitening Products
Using whitening strips or toothpaste too often can also make white spots more noticeable instead of fixing them.
Smoking While Pregnant
If a mother smokes while pregnant, it can affect the way a baby’s teeth form. This might lead to white spots later on.
Ways To Remove White Spots on Teeth
Luckily, there are both simple and high-tech ways to deal with white spots. Some can be done at home, while others require help from a dentist.
Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
One homemade option is mixing baking soda and hydrogen peroxide into a paste. This can gently clean and whiten teeth. But don’t use it too often — once or twice a month is enough. Using it too much can wear down your enamel.
Whitening Toothpastes and Strips
There are over-the-counter products that help with stains and spots. Look for ones with the ADA Seal of Approval. These can brighten your whole smile, but they don’t always make white spots disappear. Sometimes, whitening makes the spots stand out even more.
Enamel Microabrasion
This method involves gently sanding the outer layer of your tooth to even out the surface. It’s a quick, safe procedure, and your dentist can do it right in the office. It removes just a tiny layer of enamel to help blend in the white spots.
Dental Veneers
If spots are deep or cover large areas, veneers might be an option. These are thin covers placed over your natural teeth. They make your teeth look smooth and bright. Veneers last a long time but can be more expensive than other choices.
ICON White Spot Removal
One newer treatment is called ICON. It’s drill-free and doesn’t involve numbing or shots. Instead, a special solution opens the surface of the enamel, and a resin is used to fill in the white spots. This evens out the color of your tooth without taking any enamel away. It’s fast too — the whole thing usually takes less than 45 minutes.
How To Prevent White Spots
It’s always better to stop white spots before they form. These habits can help protect your enamel and keep your teeth looking healthy.
Take Care of Your Teeth Every Day
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Don’t forget to floss. Try to brush especially well if you wear braces, since food and plaque can hide around the brackets.
Eat Foods That Build Strong Teeth
Calcium-rich foods like milk, yogurt, cheese, and spinach help your enamel. Crunchy fruits and veggies also clean your teeth while you chew.
Don’t Overuse Whitening Products
Whitening strips or pastes can help your smile, but using them too much may hurt your enamel. Follow the instructions or ask your dentist for advice.
See a Dentist Regularly
Getting checkups every six months helps catch problems early. Your dentist can keep an eye out for signs of enamel damage and offer tips that match your smile.
Good Prenatal Care
If you’re expecting, taking care of your health can help your child’s teeth grow strong. Avoid smoking and eat a balanced diet.
Talk To Our Dentist About Your Options
White spots might not hurt, but they can make you feel less confident about your smile. The good news is that there are easy and safe ways to treat them. From gentle home care to professional treatments like ICON, you’ve got options. Want to find out what works best for your teeth? Call (630) 323-5333 to schedule a visit with our team at Dentists of Hinsdale Lake. We’ll take a look and help you find the right solution.