Have Post-Orthodontic White Spots? Here’s How It Can be Treated

As more people are caring about their dental health, many people have started going through the years required to finish their orthodontic treatment, hoping to receive straightened smiles in the end. But for those who just got the braces off, some may have signs of white spot lesions. White spot lesions can appear as thin, white areas along the surface of the teeth and can be a huge downer for those excited about their new smiles. But thankfully, with enough education and resources out there, white spot lesions can be treated. 

What You Should Know About White Spot Lesions 

White spot lesions are caused by enamel demineralization and white discoloration spots along the enamel’s surface. White spot lesions most often occur when bacteria has developed along the sides, and inner areas between the brace appliance and the teeth and are weakened spots of enamel that have developed over time. When these sports appear, they’re a first early warning sign of bacteria decay, typically occurring over time from the wear and tear of bacteria, which can originate from poor oral care, acid-containing foods, and insufficient calcium intake. 

White spot lesions can be tricky to remove, but with your dentists’ help, you can use steps to remove white lesions and keep your new smile healthy. Your dentist will have an array of treatments to help restore enamel strength and remove signs of white spot lesions. These treatments include: 

• Fluoride Remineralization Treatments: Fluoride treatments work to infuse the teeth with fluoride, which bonds with the enamel material to make it strong against tooth decay. Fluoride treatments are normally used as a preventative for children, and it’s often why we normally see fluoride in our toothpaste. 
• In-Office Dental Whitening: While dental whitening can’t restore enamel completely, it can help remove signs of blemishes from appearing in the first place. Dental whitening procedures use more ingredients than over-the-counter varieties and can effectively remove signs of white spot lesions from appearing in the first place. 
• Composite Resin Bonding: Composite resin bonding can help erase signs of white spot lesions completely by covering the weakened enamel with a protective resin cover. Bonding is considered one of the most popular cosmetic treatments out there, as the resin not only restores tooth function but aesthetically matches the shade of your teeth.
• Dental Veneers: In highly severe cases of enamel erosion, dental veneers can be an excellent option to restore your new smile and protect your teeth. These thin shells create a cover that helps protect your enamel from bacteria decay and provides your mouth with an aesthetically pleasing appearance that you and everyone will love.

Prevent White Spots Ahead Of Time Through Oral Care

If you still have braces, it is important to receive and follow your orthodontist’s instructions to ensure a successful outcome. Through your orthodontist, they can teach you about brushing methods, what foods to avoid, and other tricks on caring for your teeth with braces. However, if you currently have white spot lesions and need help, then your cosmetic or primary dentists can provide you with the treatments you need to remove these blemishes and protect your teeth for life.