Have you just finished braces treatment but have white spots in the middle of each tooth? Do you notice white spots on some of your teeth, even if you haven’t completed orthodontic treatment? White spots on teeth are a sign of demineralization. Demineralization occurs when plaque and acids wear away permanent teeth. As plaque, a bacterial film, builds on the teeth, it can break down teeth. Harmful bacteria feed on sugars and starches, leaving digestive acids that remove minerals that keep teeth structurally sound. Learn how we treat white spots on teeth in our Boise, ID office.

How to Treat White Spots on Teeth in Boise, ID

There are multiple common ways you can treat your white spots at home and in our dental office:

Fluoride

Brushing with fluoridated toothpaste can help gradually even out the tooth’s appearance. Fluoride also helps strengthen and remineralize teeth. This naturally-occurring mineral stimulates new bone formation and protects teeth against harmful, decay-causing bacteria.

Drinking fluoridated water and brushing with fluoride toothpaste can help strengthen teeth, but sometimes it is not enough to ensure strong teeth. We can also provide fluoride treatments in our office. Typically, fluoride can be a rinse or varnish that we apply to the back teeth. Molars are more prone to decay because they have deep grooves and are often difficult to keep clean.

Teeth Whitening Treatment

Whitening teeth can create a more cohesive look if you have white spots. We offer teeth whitening treatment that uses hydrogen peroxide, an active ingredient that removes tough tooth stains. In-office teeth whitening offers faster results than at-home treatment, but patients with take-home whitening may also benefit from less intense, gradual treatment.

Dental Veneers

If a good oral hygiene routine or teeth whitening treatment does not remove the white spots, we may recommend dental veneers. Patients with teeth that do not react to whitening treatment often have intrinsic stains, meaning that discoloration is within the tooth. Porcelain veneers are thin shells that we bond to the front of teeth. Veneers can cover one or more stained teeth.

Porcelain veneers require tooth preparation, so patients need to make sure they are committed to veneers before treatment. An added benefit to veneers is that they last for many years with the right care.

Do you have white spots on one or more permanent teeth? Create a balanced and bright smile with general and cosmetic care. Schedule your next dental visit online at LIFESmiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry or call (208) 254-6365.