Have you noticed any strange white patches on your teeth? Despite their small appearance, these pale, chalky patches frequently stand out, particularly when you smile or speak. Even though they are typically harmless, a lot of people are self-conscious about them and wonder if whitening can make them go away. Understanding the causes of white spots and how whitening affects them is crucial before starting any brightening treatment.
The common causes of white spots, whether teeth whitening can reduce their appearance, and the best dental procedures for a smooth, even-toned smile are all covered in this guide. A qualified Dublin dentist can assist you in selecting the best method if you’re looking for ways to safely remove white spots on teeth.
What Are White Spots on Teeth?
White spots are places where the enamel has lost minerals, giving the surface a hazy, chalky, or lighter appearance. This can be brought on by various circumstances:
- Fluorosis
White patches can result from early childhood exposure to excessive fluoride, which can interfere with enamel formation.
- Hypoplasia of Enamel
This happens when enamel fails to fully form, leaving thin, weak patches on the teeth that resemble white grooves or marks.
- Demineralization
Inadequate oral hygiene, particularly in the vicinity of braces, permits plaque to accumulate on teeth, removing minerals from the enamel and producing dull white patches.
- A diet high in sugary or acidic foods
White spots become more noticeable when enamel is frequently exposed to acids.
- Early Dental Disease
Before becoming brown or cavitated, decay frequently starts as opaque white lesions.
Whatever the reason, the fundamental query is still: Can teeth whitening get rid of these white spots?
Can Teeth Whitening Remove White Spots on Teeth?
At Dublin Metro Dental, this is one of the most frequently asked questions. The straightforward response is:
White spots can be blended in with teeth whitening, but they cannot be eliminated.
What you should know is as follows:
- In comparison to the rest of the tooth, white spots are already lighter.
- The surrounding enamel is made brighter by whitening, but the internal color of white lesions remains unchanged.
Therefore, before the tooth gradually blends in, whitening may make the white patches more noticeable at first.
White spots cannot be “erased” by whitening alone, though several whitening sessions can sometimes slightly level out the color.
Because of this, determining the cause of the spots is crucial before selecting a course of treatment.
Can Whitening Make White Spots Worse?
Yes, occasionally.
The tooth temporarily loses moisture while being whitened. White spots become more noticeable and brighter when enamel dries. Thankfully, this effect is transient, and the spots frequently become dull again after the tooth rehydrates over the course of the following 24 to 48 hours. If the spots are still noticeable, targeted treatment, rather than just whitening, is required.
What About White Spots After Whitening?
A common misconception is that whitening results in white spots. In actuality:
White spots that were already present are simply made visible by whitening.
Deeper enamel discoloration frequently covered up these spots. Preexisting lesions become more visible as whitening removes stains.
After whitening, you might notice new white spots because of:
- Prior fluorosis
- Demineralisation of enamel
- Inadequate dental care
- Mouth dryness
- Damage from braces
- Early deterioration
- Hypoplasia of enamel
Whitening only brought these to light; it did not cause them.
Most Effective Dental Treatment for White Spots Removal
Your dentist might suggest the most effective dental treatment for white spots removal
- Microabrasion
Superficial white lesions are greatly reduced by gently polishing away a thin layer of enamel.
Ideal for: White patches close to the enamel surface that are mild to moderate.
2. Resin Infiltration (ICON Treatment)
One of the most widely used methods for white spots removal nowadays.
The chalky look is removed and the tooth color is beautifully blended when a unique resin penetrates the porous enamel.
Advantages
- Not drilling
- Absence of injections
- Quick cosmetic enhancement
Ideal for areas affected by hypomineralization, fluorosis, or braces
- Composite Bonding
To restore a uniform surface, tooth-colored resin is applied after the white spot has been removed.
Ideal for: stubborn or deep white patches.
- Porcelain Veneers
Veneers completely cover the tooth surface in cases of severe lesions, resulting in a perfect smile.
Ideal for:
- Defects in deep enamel
- Hypoplasia
- White patches that are persistent
- Significant aesthetic issues
Preventing White spots on Teeth
Treatment is never preferable to prevention. Here’s how to maintain the health of enamel:
- Use fluoride toothpaste twice a day.
- Steer clear of sugary and acidic foods.
- Keep up good brushing habits while receiving orthodontic treatment.
- See your dentist twice a year.
- Don’t give kids too much fluoride.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Select mild whitening products.
New white patches can be avoided with proper enamel care.
Achieve a Smooth, Even Smile At Dublin Metro Dental
Whitening by itself might not be the solution if you have persistent white spots. ICON infiltration, microabrasion, and composite bonding are just a few of the cutting-edge white spot removal methods that Dublin Metro Dental offers to help you safely and successfully get a bright, evenly toned smile.
Our dentist will assess the reason behind your white spots, as an experienced Dublin dentist and suggest the best, customised course of action.
Are you prepared to get a gorgeously bright smile and get rid of white spots?
Make an appointment with Dublin Metro Dental right now.
