Have you noticed white spots forming on your teeth? Though these seem like cosmetic dental concerns, they could also be a symptom of a larger health concern in your teeth. This discoloration can occur when you have sustained a loss of calcium in the enamel of your teeth.
Dentists call this issue hypocalcification. Though this damage often cannot be reversed, your dentist can address this dental problem when you schedule an appointment. Read on to learn about calcium depletion in your teeth and how this issue impacts your oral health.
What Is Hypocalcification?
Hypocalcification refers to a calcium deficiency in the enamel of a patient’s teeth. It can often manifest with chalky or creamy-looking white spots on the surface of the teeth.
These areas with less calcium mean that they now lack a major component and are therefore weakened or softened. This makes the teeth more vulnerable to dental dangers like cavities, as plaque can more easily deteriorate the enamel there.
Calcium loss may occur when a patient consumes sugary or acidic foods that can erode the enamel over time. Similarly, poor oral hygiene can allow plaque to linger on your smile and hurt your teeth. Some patients might be more prone to calcium loss, however, and will need to work with their dentist to resolve the issue.
Can My Dentist Get Rid of White Spots on My Teeth?
Though enamel erosion will leave damage to your dental structure that cannot be reversed, your dentist has a number of treatments they can employ to help you treat calcium loss in your teeth. They can complete a fluoride treatment on your teeth to improve the strength of the enamel.
Fluoride absorbs into the teeth, fortifying the enamel and making it more resistant to both surface stains and damage like cavities. You can preserve the look and health of your smile with this type of treatment. The dentist may also suggest that you use toothpaste or mouthwash at home that contains fluoride to further strengthen your smile.
The white spots on your teeth may remain after this treatment. To even out the color of your smile, your dentist may recommend tooth bonding.
This cosmetic treatment features tooth-colored resin that a dentist sculpts according to your aesthetic goals for your smile. The individualized attention from the dentist and a final polish will ensure a beautiful, bright, and natural-looking finish.
Can I Prevent Calcium Loss in My Smile?
You can protect the health of your teeth by limiting the amount of acidic and sugary foods that you eat. These foods can eat away at your enamel, especially the calcium that keeps your teeth strong. Once enamel degenerates, it cannot regrow, so you should preserve it as well as you can.
You can also keep your smile healthy by practicing good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing your teeth twice per day, flossing on a daily basis, and visiting your dentist for routine teeth cleanings and oral health exams.