Ever looked in the mirror and noticed small white patches on your teeth that don’t seem to go away, even after brushing? These white spots are surprisingly common and can be a source of self-consciousness for many people. While they’re usually harmless, they often signal underlying issues with your oral health. Understanding what causes white spots on teeth can help you prevent them – and in some cases, even reverse them.
Enamel Hypoplasia
One of the most common causes of white spots is enamel hypoplasia, a condition where the tooth enamel doesn’t form properly. This can occur during childhood while teeth are still developing and can be triggered by a range of factors, including:
- Poor nutrition during pregnancy or early childhood.
- High fevers or illnesses during tooth development.
- Use of certain medications.
- Premature birth.
These spots may appear chalky, and the enamel in those areas is usually thinner and weaker, making teeth more vulnerable to cavities.
Fluorosis
Another major cause is dental fluorosis, which occurs when someone is exposed to too much fluoride during the formative years of their teeth (usually up to age 8). While fluoride is essential for preventing tooth decay, excessive intake – often from swallowing toothpaste or overuse of supplements – can lead to white streaks or blotches on the teeth.
Mild fluorosis typically results in small white spots that are more of a cosmetic issue, while more severe cases can cause brown stains and pitting.
Demineralization from Plaque Buildup
White spots can also be an early warning sign of tooth decay. When plaque sits on the surface of your teeth for too long, it begins to break down the minerals in your enamel. This process is called demineralization, and it often appears as dull, white patches.
This is especially common for people who wear braces, as it’s easy for plaque to accumulate around brackets and wires. If caught early, these spots can sometimes be reversed with good oral hygiene and remineralizing treatments.
Poor Diet and Acidic Foods
A diet high in sugar and acidic foods and drinks (like soda, sports drinks, and citrus) can contribute to the formation of white spots. Acid weakens the enamel, and sugar feeds the bacteria that produce acid, accelerating the demineralization process. Over time, this can lead to both white spots and cavities.
Dry Mouth
Saliva plays a key role in neutralizing acids and keeping your teeth healthy. People with chronic dry mouth due to medications, medical conditions, or dehydration may experience more enamel damage, leading to the appearance of white spots.
How to Prevent and Treat White Spots
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss every day.
- Avoid excessive sugary or acidic foods and drinks.
- Use fluoride in moderation, especially in children.
- Ask your dentist about remineralizing treatments or professional whitening if spots are a cosmetic concern.
White spots on your teeth are more than just a cosmetic issue – they can be early signs of enamel damage or developmental conditions. With good oral hygiene, proper diet, and regular dental visits, you can protect your enamel and keep your smile bright and healthy.
About the Author
Dr. Khushboo Gandhi has worked in the dental field for nearly 20 years. She is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry and has continued her education at the Baylor College of Dentistry, as well as being an active member of Spear Education. Dr. Gandhi is a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Texas Dental Association. If you’d like a professional teeth whitening to rid your teeth of unsightly spots, schedule an appointment with us online or by phone at (972) 532-6506.