Have you noticed white spots on your teeth and wondered what they are and what you can do about them? Dr. Raj Upadya of Metropolitan Center for Complete Dentistry in East Hanover, New Jersey, has a revolutionary treatment for white spots on teeth for a significant improvement in the esthetics and health of the tooth. Treating white spots on teeth is one of the dental concerns Dr. Upadya treats in his East Hanover, NJ, dental office.
What Causes White Spots on Teeth?
White spots on teeth indicate the demineralization of tooth enamel, which may or may not lead to cavities. It is common for dentists and patients to notice white spots on teeth after orthodontic treatments. During orthodontic treatment with metal braces, food particles, and other debris become trapped against the tooth and cause the tooth enamel to erode, leaving a white stain on the teeth.
Other potential causes are fluorosis, hypoplasia, hypo calcification, erosion, tetracycline staining, xerostoma, and trauma. Heavy plaque accumulation, poor oral hygiene, and diets high in sugar or acid (such as soda drinkers or citrus fruit eaters) may be other causes of white spots on teeth.
Treatment for White Spots on Teeth
Dr. Upadya is excited to be one of the first New Jersey dentists to offer Icon dental treatment for white spots on teeth. This minimally invasive technique helps reinforce the tooth enamel and reduce the appearance of white stains on teeth.
How Icon Dental Treatment Works:
First, Dr. Upadya covers the gums and teeth. Then, he cleans and rinses the affected teeth. Next, he applies the Icon-Etch to the tooth. This is hydrochloric acid, which he leaves on for approximately 2 minutes. After about 2 minutes, Dr. Upadya removes the etching material, rinses, and dries the tooth. The etching process produces a surface ready to accept the icon-filling treatment.
For the next part of the procedure, Dr. Upadya will apply a special Icon-Infiltrant solution to the tooth, allowing it to be set before curing it with a special light. A second layer may be applied for desired results. Finally, he polishes the tooth to a smooth luster.
The Icon dental treatment results in a significant reduction in the appearance of white spots on teeth. Icon dental treatment also stops the demineralization of tooth enamel and arrests the formation of cavities.
Other Options
A more extreme approach would be to disguise the white spots with dental veneers. This may be a suitable option if you have issues with many teeth or the problem exists deeper in the tooth. Porcelain veneers are popular dental restorations used by people who are unhappy with the appearance of their smile.
They are very thin shells secured to the front of a tooth to hide imperfections such as white spots. They also resist staining, maintaining their bright shade more easily and longer than your natural enamel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to have spots on your teeth?
Many spots on your teeth are not normal, but it is not uncommon. Many people develop yellow, brown, black, or white spots on their teeth. You can prevent these spots from developing; in many cases, your dentist can cover or remove them.
What do dots on your teeth mean?
Dots on your teeth may mean a variety of things. High fluoride levels, infection, vitamin deficiency, poor oral care, or excess plaque can cause white spots. Black or brown spots may indicate cavities, decay, or poor oral hygiene.
Is the black dot on the tooth a cavity?
Black spots on teeth may be a cavity, but this is not always the case. Black spots can also be staining or caused by something else. If you have black staining on your teeth and are concerned about the appearance, scheduling an appointment with your dentist is a good idea.
What can I do for white spots on my teeth?
Dentists can perform enamel microabrasion on patients who have spots on their teeth. They may choose to bleach a patient’s teeth to reduce the visibility of stains or spots. Cosmetic dental veneers can cover teeth so that no permanent staining is present.
How long does it take for white spots on teeth to go away?
White spots on teeth may take a long time to go away. Dentists estimate that the average white spot takes six years to heal entirely.
Are white spots on teeth reversible?
The success of removing white spots on teeth is largely based on what caused them. Most white spots are treatable and are not noticeable to the naked eye.
Can teeth whitening cause white spots?
The teeth whitening process does not cause white spots on your teeth. However, it can amplify the appearance of spots that already exist. White spots are typically due to a lack of calcium in your enamel. Whitening solutions commonly enhance white spots rather than hiding them.
Schedule a Dental Exam & Consultation
If you have white spots on your teeth, contact the Metropolitan Center for Complete Dentistry in East Hanover, New Jersey, for a consultation with Dr. Raj Upadya. Call us at (973) 287-3153 or request an appointment online today.