Why Are There White Spots on My Teeth?

You look into the mirror and notice white spots in your smile. What are they doing there? And what are they? Metropolitan Center for Complete Dentistry’s Dr. Raj Upadya, an experienced dentist in East Hanover, NJ, can help. Read more to find out what those white spots are and how Dr. Upadya can provide treatment.Why Are There White Spots on My Teeth?

Why Are There White Spots on My Teeth?

One of the main causes of white spots on teeth is the demineralization of tooth enamel. This frequently happens to a patient after they’ve had braces or other orthodontic treatments. With metal braces, food particles can get trapped and stuck, being held against the tooth. This causes the enamel to erode and leaves a white spot. It also may or may not cause tooth decay in these areas.

However, there are various other things that can cause white spots. Fluorosis, hypoplasia, hypocalcification, erosion, xerostomia, and trauma to the teeth can also be causes of white spots. If you’re taking tetracycline, that’s also known to cause these spots. Having a diet that’s really high in sugar or acid may erode the enamel as well.

Icon Dental Treatment for White Spots

Metropolitan Center for Complete Dentistry is one of the first dental practices in New Jersey to offer Icon dental treatment for white spots. Icon is minimally invasive and can easily target specific teeth that have white spots on them.

For Icon treatment, Dr. Upadya will cover your gums and the teeth that aren’t receiving treatment. The teeth that are getting treated will be cleaned and rinsed to prepare. Then, the Icon-Etch is applied. This works by applying hydrochloric acid to the teeth for about two minutes. Once this is done, the teeth are then rinsed and dried. The teeth are now ready for the filling treatment.

The Icon-Infiltrant solution is then applied to your teeth, setting into position. It’s cured and hardened with a special light. Dr. Upadya will check if a second layer is needed for optimal results. If not, the tooth is then smoothed and polished to match the rest of your teeth. This treatment also stops the demineralization of the enamel, so that the problem won’t occur further.

Other Treatment Options

If you want a more intense option for white spots, porcelain veneers can disguise them. If you have a large number of teeth that are affected, or the white spots are deep into your tooth, this may be the best option for you.

These thin shells of dental ceramic go over the outside of your tooth. They can be color-matched to the rest of your teeth and shined so they look natural. Porcelain veneers will hide the white spots and can help strengthen the teeth. However, you’ll have to be careful of tooth decay and making sure it doesn’t occur under the veneer.

White Spot Treatment at Your Dentist in East Hanover, NJ

Metropolitan Center for Complete Dentistry is fully prepared to address the white spots on your teeth with the latest in dental technology. Call us today or schedule an appointment online to get started!