White spots on teeth can be frustrating to deal with.
While they’re usually harmless, these pale patches can stand out against the rest of your enamel, affecting how your teeth look in photos, conversations, and close-ups.
But what actually causes them, and more importantly, how can you get rid of them?
Here’s everything you need to know about white spots on teeth, including why they appear, how to prevent them, and what treatments can help reduce or remove them.
What are white spots on teeth?
White spots appear as small, chalky patches that disrupt the natural shine and translucency of your enamel.
They’re often more visible in bright light or after whitening treatments, which can sometimes make the contrast more noticeable.
While not usually painful or a sign of serious damage, white spots are a form of enamel irregularity.
They signal that the surface of the tooth is missing essential minerals, which affects how light reflects off it.
This is why they look more opaque or matte compared to the rest of your enamel.
Common causes of white spots on teeth
Before you start addressing the issue of white spots on your teeth, it’s essential to understand the root cause.
White spots typically occur due to the demineralisation of enamel, which affects the tooth’s appearance. Some common causes include:
1) Demineralisation from poor oral hygiene
When plaque isn’t thoroughly removed, especially around the gumline or between teeth, it creates an acidic environment that can start to break down enamel.
This demineralisation is a common cause of white spots and is especially frequent in people who wear braces, as brackets make cleaning more challenging.
2) Fluorosis
Too much fluoride during early childhood, when adult teeth are still forming, can lead to a condition known as dental fluorosis.
It often shows up as white streaks or patches across the enamel.
While fluoride is essential for preventing decay, excess amounts can cause cosmetic issues like these.
3) Acidic or sugary diet
Frequent consumption of acidic or sugary foods can strip away enamel minerals over time.
Citrus fruits, fizzy drinks, sweets, and even sports drinks contribute to enamel erosion, making white patches more visible.
Snacking throughout the day without brushing can also accelerate demineralisation.
4) Dry mouth or dehydration
Saliva plays a big role in keeping enamel healthy by washing away acids and delivering minerals.
If you suffer from dry mouth or dehydration, especially overnight, it can reduce your saliva flow, leading to more visible white areas on your teeth.
Why do white spots on teeth look worse in the morning?
If you wake up with white patches on your teeth that seem to fade later in the day, you’re not imagining it.
Overnight dehydration, particularly if you breathe through your mouth while sleeping, can temporarily dry out your enamel.
This reduces its natural shine and makes any inconsistencies (like white spots) stand out more.
Once saliva production picks back up, the enamel becomes more hydrated and the spots often become less noticeable.
How to get rid of white spots on teeth
The best treatment for white spots depends on their cause and severity.
Some cases improve with better at-home care, while others benefit from professional dental treatments.
Daily habits that help
- Brush with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash
- Stay hydrated to support healthy saliva levels
- Avoid highly acidic or sugary snacks and drinks
- Try to address mouth breathing or snoring
If you’re consistent with these habits, you may see a gradual improvement in the evenness of your enamel.
Professional treatments for white spots
When white spots are more stubborn or widespread, dental treatments can help restore a smoother, more uniform appearance.
1) Remineralisation
Dentists often recommend remineralising pastes or fluoride gels to restore lost minerals in the enamel.
These treatments strengthen the outer layer of the teeth and can reduce the contrast of white spots over time.
2) Microabrasion
This minimally invasive cosmetic treatment involves gently buffing away a thin layer of enamel to reduce or remove white patches.
It’s especially effective for superficial or post-orthodontic white spots and can be combined with whitening for a more even result.
3) Professional whitening treatments
A professional-grade whitening treatment, such as Vitalisse, can help even out the colour of your enamel, making white spots less noticeable.
Whitening gels used under professional supervision can gradually blend the colour of white spots with the surrounding enamel for a more uniform look.
Ready to improve the appearance of your smile?
White spots on teeth don’t have to be permanent. With the right care and professional treatments, you can restore a more even, healthy-looking appearance.
If at-home solutions aren’t giving you the results you want, speak to your dentist about the best treatment options for you.
Take the first step towards a more confident smile today!
