A bright, white smile is something that many people strive for, and teeth whitening has become a popular way to achieve it. However, some individuals have reported the appearance of white spots on their teeth after undergoing the whitening process. This occurrence can be concerning, but it’s important to remember that it is not uncommon. In this article, we’ll discuss what these white spots are, why they may appear after whitening, and what can be done to address them.
What are the white spots on teeth?
White spot lesions (WSLs) are areas of the tooth that appear chalky, opaque, and slightly lighter in color than the surrounding enamel. You may also notice that this area feels rougher than the surrounding enamel. They are the first indication of a tooth starting to decay (meaning it’s not as healthy as it should be, and you’re getting a cavity). They appear when the enamel (the hard, shiny coating on your teeth) starts to decalcify (break down). This erosion is often caused by plaque (a sticky film full of bacteria) that builds up on your teeth and isn’t removed by brushing.
If you don’t take care of your teeth and remove plaque, WSLs can get worse and eventually lead to cavities (holes in your teeth) and require a dental filling. However, if you catch them early, WSLs can be reversed before they cause too much damage.
In terms of teeth whitening, many people may already have WSLs on their teeth before undergoing any whitening treatment, but they may have gone unnoticed.
Why are WSLs visible after teeth whitening?
The bleaching process involved in teeth whitening often involves the use of peroxide-based products that dehydrate the teeth. Because of the structure of WSLs compared to the healthy tooth structure, a WSL will often experience much greater dehydration. This dehydration can cause any areas that were already demineralized, such as WSLs, to become more visible. Combined with the fact that people who have just undergone teeth whitening may be more likely to examine their teeth closely and notice any imperfections or discolorations that were already present, this can lead to noticing a white spot that was previously unseen.
How do you get rid of White Spots on your Teeth?
The good news is white spots on teeth are usually temporary and should improve with time. As the tooth rehydrates in the days following the whitening treatment, the white spots caused by dehydration may become less visible. In fact, most studies have shown that WSLs will become less noticeable in the days after undergoing teeth whitening.
If, however, the white spots are still visible or you’re concerned about them, there are solutions to help. The best approach to addressing white spots on teeth after whitening is to focus on remineralizing the affected areas using fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that can help replace lost calcium and phosphate from the enamel, thus reversing the effects of demineralization. Fluoride can be obtained through toothpaste, mouthwash or professional treatments available at dental offices. Phosphopeptide compounds, which are able to stabilize calcium and phosphate ions and promote demineralization, are another professional treatment option. Infiltrative resins can also be used as a minimally invasive method to get the resin inside of the WSL to stabilize the affected area.
Regardless of which treatment option is chosen, remember that consistent brushing and flossing are essential for avoiding the formation of white spots and helping reverse them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the appearance of white spots on teeth after whitening may be concerning, but it is not unusual. These spots are usually the result of demineralization, and they can be remedied with the use of fluoride and proper oral hygiene practices. Oftentimes, these spots will become less visible on their own as the tooth rehydrates, but if the white spots remain a concern, professional treatments are available. If you’re concerned about the appearance of white spots on your teeth after teeth whitening, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with your dentist to evaluate the severity of the issue and find the appropriate solution.
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No two mouths are the same, and each oral situation is unique. As such, it isn’t possible to give comprehensive advice or diagnose oral conditions based on articles alone. The best way to ensure you’re getting the best dental care possible is to visit a dentist in person for an examination and consultation.
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