What Are These Weird White Spots on My Teeth and How Can I Get Rid of Them?

While white is typically considered the ideal color for a smile, you may notice a few unusually white areas on your teeth. This discoloration may be due to decalcification, meaning that some of the minerals in your enamel have been eroded away. While this might sound a little frightening, these spots are a fairly common cosmetic dental issue that most people will deal with at some point or another. Here’s what causes these unsightly blemishes, how you can prevent them, and how your dentist can help you get rid of them.

Where Did These White Spots Come From?

Anyone can develop unsightly white spots on their teeth. The process of decalcification removes minerals like calcium and phosphorus from the enamel, and it is typically caused by acid exposure. Your mouth is host to teeming populations of oral bacteria, and many of them feed on the sugary residues left in the mouth and excrete acid as a byproduct. The accumulation of this acid can lead to decalcification as well as dental stains, tooth decay, and gum disease, but this can be prevented with proper oral hygiene.

Acidic beverages like soda, wine, and juice are another common cause of decalcification. It’s best to limit your consumption of these libations and to drink them through a straw to reduce how much contact they make with your teeth when you indulge.

How Can My Dentist Help Me Get Rid of These White Spots?

Your dentist may be able to help you get rid of any unsightly decalcified white spots with a professional teeth whitening treatment. By using customized dental trays to apply powerful whitening agents to your teeth, your dentist can lift stubborn stains and help your teeth achieve a consistent and shiny shade of white. The results of this treatment can last for several years, and patients can receive them again as needed. While you’ll need to be free from oral infections to qualify, your dentist will be happy to address these with restorative dentistry.

Don’t let distracting white spots detract from the beauty of your smile. Consulting with your dentist will help you find the best way to achieve your ideal grin.

About the Author

Dr. Neelima Ravi earned her dental degree at the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine in 2005 and earned Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry in June 2021. She is also a current SPEAR faculty member. Her office in Hampton offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening. To learn more about the teeth whitening process, contact the office online or dial (516) 309-4208.