Developing white spots on teeth after braces is very common. You could be wondering what are the implications? Why are there white spots on my teeth and can they be fixed?
CAUSES WHITE SPOTS ON TEETH AFTER BRACES
White spots on teeth after braces are developed from plaque that are present over a long time. When plagues form, they tend to form around the line of the gum or are deposited under the braces. When the plaque is not brushed off properly, they develop into white spots on the teeth.
It is possible you may not notice the white spots until the braces are taken off. In fact the major reason white spots form is because the braces do not allow proper picking off tooth plaques during brushing.
HOW ARE THE WHITE SPOTS ON TEETH AFTER BRACES FORMED
The white spots on teeth after braces form when the acid (from the bacteria plaque) has stayed on the enamel for a long time. The acid dissolves elements like calcium on these areas and erodes the enamel. These are also referred to as white spot lesions.
White spots on teeth after braces in some cases are usually an early sign of tooth decay. This is because the enamel gets demineralized and begins to wear away. This makes these spots more susceptible to acid attacks that cause cavities. If left untreated, the white spots could remain permanent.
REMEDY FOR WHITE SPOTS ON TEETH AFTER BRACES
Taking off your braces and being greeted with white spots can be disappointing but there’s no need to panic. Here are some helpful things you could do to improve your condition.
1.The major cause of the white spots as we have stated earlier is de-mineralization of the enamel, so one way to actually remedy the situation is by rebuilding the enamel. This will involve using toothpaste or cream rich in fluoride and nano-hydroxyapatite. These elements will help in rebuilding and increasing the strength of the enamel. With time the white spots will begin to disappear.
2. The use of teeth whitening chemicals on the teeth is another way to handle white spots. Tooth whiteners will blend the different colors of the teeth and give it a better appearance. These may not necessarily get rid of the white spots totally but they can help improve the color of the teeth.
3. Maintaining good oral hygiene entails regular brushing of teeth at least twice a day, rinsing the mouth. If this is done consistently the spots can go away on their own.
4. You will also want to watch the food you take in. Foods with high acidic content should be avoided. Remember the acid erodes the enamel the more. Try to maintain a healthy pH level in your mouth. Also ensure you drink enough water too. Rinse your mouth with water whenever you drink something sugary or acidic.
5. Veneers could be used to handle white spots. Veneers is cosmetic treatment that entails adding thin shells of tooth-colored materials to the surface of the tooth. This does not totally get rid of the white spots but it improves the appearance of the teeth.
OTHER CAUSES OF WHITE SPOTS
While white spots can form while you have braces, there are also other things that can result in white spot forming on your teeth. They include;
1. Accumulation of Plaque
Generally, when plaques stay over a long period of time with or without braces, white spots are bound to develop. Plaques form when food remnants, bacteria and saliva harden on the teeth. Plaques blocks certain minerals from reaching your teeth, hence the enamel is demineralized. The acid from the bacteria also wears your enamel away resulting in white spots.
2. Dehydration
The saliva contain some minerals that are important to the teeth. When the teeth is not bathed in enough saliva, the reverse is the case, in fact, you become prone to developing white spots. This can happen when the teeth is dehydrated. Teeth dehydration mostly occurs when sleeping with your mouth open.
Dehydration can also be referred to as chronic dry mouth. Chronic dry mouth is fostered by sleeping mouth open or taking medications that can reduce saliva production and increase your chances of developing white spots. They also make the teeth easily attacked by foods and drinks that are acidic. However, white spots caused by dehydration may not last for long, they can clear in a matter of hours.
3. Enamel Hypoplasia
This is a condition whereby the quality and thickness of the enamel is reduced. This is caused by are lot of factors such as smoking during pregnancy, deficiency of nutrients etc. Although it is not very common, people with enamel hypoplasia are more prone to develop white spot and dental diseases.
4. Fluorosis
This is commonly found in children and is caused by excessive exposure to fluoride either through ingestion of fluoride or products containing flouride. Flouride is good for teeth strengthening but when it is excessive can lead to discolouration of the teeth and white spots.
5. Diet
Diet plays a role in white spot formation. Foods that are acidic, have high sugar content can easily result in white spots. Highly acidic foods will easily erode the enamel and promote white spots.
RECOMMENDED READING:
- Why Are My Teeth Yellow When I Brush Them Everyday
- How To Remove Tartar From Teeth
- How To Whiten Teeth With Braces: 4 Amazing Methods
HOW DO I AVOID WHITE SPOTS ON TEETH AFTER BRACES
1. Improve on your oral hygiene; You will need to take extra care while brushing.
2. Pay attention to details. An electric toothbrush could also be helpful.
3. Have your teeth checked regularly while undergoing orthodontic treatment.Use products that contain fluoride .
CONCLUSION
Having white spots on teeth after braces is not ideal that is why it is easily treated if they are spotted on time. It is more ideal to take preventive measures while wearing the braces. This can be achieved by putting in extra effort while brushing and flossing. However, if you still have them, there are still some things you can do about it as we have already pointed out.