Achieving a straight, dazzling smile through orthodontic treatment is a goal shared by many. However, the journey often comes with an unexpected pitfall: white spots. These chalky blemishes can mar an otherwise beautiful smile and leave patients feeling disheartened.
Caused by a combination of factors, including increased plaque buildup due to braces, these unsightly marks can be both frustrating and confusing. With a deeper understanding of why they occur and the available treatment options, you can effectively address white spots and restore your smile’s brilliance. Let’s delve into the causes of white spots and explore strategies for prevention and treatment.
What Causes Those White Spot Lesions on the Teeth
White spot lesions are an unfortunate side-effect of plaque buildup that develops during orthodontic treatment, especially if that treatment involves brackets and bands.
The brackets and bands make it harder to clean the teeth thoroughly, and most likely, you miss the spots behind them.
As you eat or drink foods or beverages containing sugar and starches, bacteria and plaque build up in places you can’t easily reach with your toothbrush. The bacteria leads to demineralization or mineral loss inside your tooth behind the tooth enamel. The enamel is translucent, so the area appears to have a white spot.
How to Remove White Spots After Braces
For the most part, you can’t remove these white spots for yourself. Typically the only way to remove these spots is to see a skilled orthodontist who performs specialized tooth whitening treatments.
This, of course, varies depending on the location and severity of the white spots. Your orthodontist will need to examine your teeth to ensure they are healthy enough for the treatment to get rid of white spots after braces.
At Classic City Orthodontics, we use a minimally invasive combination of etching and polishing techniques to lift and remove white spots and other stains that remain after removing braces. We do this within a single appointment, with no downtime! We find this is the most effective way to remove the white spots.
Often we combine white spot stain removal with overall tooth whitening to help you achieve a more uniformly bright smile. Since you just had your braces removed, you most likely want to show off your straightened teeth. Think of it as a makeover for your smile!
More Detail and Other Treatment Options for White Spots on the Tooth
Remineralization treatments help refortify the teeth and may also help fade the spots, especially if they are mild. Quite possibly, your orthodontist recommended or prescribed remineralization treatment to restore some of the strength and health of your teeth.
While this probably won’t be as effective as a whitening and polishing treatment from an orthodontist, it is beneficial. Some patients eager to show off their new smile may opt for a combination of remineralization combined with aesthetic polishing treatment.
In addition, depending on the severity of the lesions, your orthodontist may include other techniques as part of the treatment.
Sometimes when the marks are raised, a cosmetic dentist may use dental microabrasion techniques to even the texture and reveal smoother enamel. When the spots are deeply indented, the dentist may use a tooth-colored dental resin to fill it in.
In some cases, dental veneers may be an alternative if the spots are very severe and obvious yet do not respond to remineralization or whitening treatments. The thin veneers hide or mask the white spots and give the appearance of uniformly white and bright teeth. A cosmetic dentist can help if veneers are the option you choose.
If You Currently Have Braces, How to Prevent White Spots
If you currently have braces, you may be able to prevent new white spots from forming on your teeth. However, if you already have white spots, visiting a cosmetic dentist is your best option.
Tips for Preventing White Spots on Teeth with Braces
Diet and Nutrition
Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks:
These substances contribute to demineralization, leading to white spots. When consumed, enjoy them during meals and brush them afterward.
Hydrate with water:
Water helps neutralize mouth acid and rinse away food particles. Sip it throughout the day, especially after consuming acidic foods or drinks.
Oral Hygiene
- Consistent and thorough brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean your teeth for at least two minutes after meals and before bed.
- Floss daily: Reach those hard-to-clean areas between teeth and braces with floss or an interdental cleaner.
- Utilize additional cleaning tools: Consider a water flosser or mouthwash to remove food particles and bacteria.
- Professional cleanings: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health and preventing white spots.
Protective Measures
Dental sealants: Ask your dentist about applying sealants to protect the enamel on your teeth during orthodontic treatment.
Fluoride treatments: Topical fluoride can help strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of white spots.
Remember: Consistent oral hygiene and a balanced diet are crucial for preventing white spots and maintaining a healthy smile during your orthodontic treatment.
There is no reason to be embarrassed if you already have braces or discover white spots despite your best efforts. It is very difficult to reach those spots covered by brackets, especially if you started wearing braces very young.
FAQs
What Causes Those Unsightly White Spots After Braces?
- Demineralization: The process of wearing braces can make it challenging to maintain optimal oral hygiene. This can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria, which produce acids that erode tooth enamel, resulting in white spots.
- Dry Mouth: Some orthodontic treatments, including braces, can contribute to dry mouth. Saliva helps protect teeth by neutralizing acids, so reduced saliva flow can increase the risk of demineralization.
Can I Prevent White Spots from Appearing?
- Meticulous Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and use a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your enamel.
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule routine cleanings and exams to remove plaque and identify any early signs of demineralization.
- Fluoride Treatments: Discuss fluoride treatments with your dentist, as they can help remineralize weakened enamel.
- Dietary Considerations: Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as they contribute to acid production in the mouth.
How Can I Get Rid of White Spots?
The best approach depends on the severity of the white spots. Here are some common treatment options:
- Professional Teeth Whitening: While this might not eliminate white spots, it can often make them less noticeable.
- Dental Bonding: A tooth-colored resin can be applied to the affected areas to mask the appearance of white spots.
- Veneers: For more severe cases, porcelain veneers can be used to cover the entire front surface of the tooth, effectively concealing white spots.
- In-Office Treatments: Your dentist may recommend professional treatments like fluoride varnish or mineral-based solutions to help remineralize the affected areas.
Will white spots turn into cavities?
While white spots are an early stage of tooth decay, they don’t necessarily mean you have cavities. However, if left untreated, they can progress into cavities. Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor their development.
How long does it take to remove white spots?
Treatment time varies depending on the severity of the spots and the chosen method. Minor spots might be addressed in a single dental visit, while more extensive cases may require multiple sessions.
How does resin infiltration work?
Resin infiltration is a minimally invasive treatment where a liquid resin is applied to the white spot, penetrating the enamel and improving its appearance.
Are there any specific toothpastes or mouthwashes that can help prevent white spots? While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent white spots entirely, proper oral hygiene is crucial in minimizing their appearance.
- Fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and can help remineralize weakened areas. Look for toothpaste with a high fluoride concentration.
- Mouthwash: Using a fluoride mouthwash can provide additional protection for your teeth. Some mouthwashes also contain antibacterial agents to help control plaque.
We at Classic City Orthodontics specialize in cosmetic treatments like how to get rid of white spots on teeth. We are proud to help residents live their best smiles. We love seeing our patients’ confident grins as they discover they love how their teeth look after treatment. We bring a relaxing and upscale orthodontics experience to Georgia. Contact us today to schedule your consultation appointment.
