If you notice creamy or chalky white spots forming on your teeth, you might feel self-conscious about the way they make your smile appear. This discoloration will not fade when you brush your teeth. Your confidence may suffer as the spots hinder your smile.
But the white spots could also be a symptom of an issue called hypocalcification. You should visit your dentist for a cosmetic consult as well as a dental exam to make sure the discoloration is not hurting your teeth. Read on to learn more about this dental concern and how it relates to your overall oral health.
What Is Hypocalcification?
Hypocalcification refers to a dental condition in which calcium has depleted from the enamel of the teeth. The enamel, the outermost layer of the tooth, primarily consists of calcium. So if a great amount of the mineral has deteriorated, this shows a major weakening of the teeth.
The thinned or weakened parts of the tooth will manifest as white discoloration. Weakened enamel may mean your teeth are more vulnerable to dental dangers. Plaque can more easily infiltrate the sensitive interior of the teeth. Then you can experience a higher risk of infections or decay.
How Will My Dentist Get Rid of White Discoloration?
Once weakened, enamel cannot regenerate on its own. But your dentist can employ methods to strengthen the remaining enamel to keep your teeth safe. This will involve fluoride treatments.
You receive some fluoride when consuming your usual diet, but your dentist can also give you a rinse, gel, or paste in their office that will absorb into your teeth. The fluoride will fortify the enamel so that the teeth can resist dental dangers.
However, this treatment will not address the white discoloration. Because the spots are not stains, you cannot brush them away or use typical teeth whitening methods to get rid of them.
Your dentist can use other cosmetic dental work to give you a more even and enhanced tooth color. Dental bonding, for instance, offers flexibility to enhance the color of your smile. Porcelain veneers will attach to teeth to build a bright and even-looking smile as well.
Can I Prevent Calcium Loss in My Teeth?
Some patients have genetic dispositions or underlying medical issues that lead to calcium loss in their teeth. They will need to work with their dentists for specialized preventative care to protect their smiles.
However, calcium loss can also occur due to enamel erosion. This might happen if you relax your oral hygiene regimen. So keep flossing each day and brushing your teeth twice daily.
Acidic or sugary foods and drinks may also eat away at your teeth and lead to this dental damage. Limit or avoid these food items if you can. Consider drinking water if you do consume these items. The water can rinse lingering acids away from your teeth to minimize dental harm and preserve your oral health.