How to prevent white spots on teeth

Molly-Mae Hague shows off her natural teeth

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White spots can appear on many people’s teeth – even when that individual has a perfect dental routine. White spots or other discolouration can be caused by several things including illness, infection, vitamin deficiencies, excess fluid or even trauma to the tooth.

There are several causes for white spots on your teeth.

The most common cause is dental fluorosis – a cosmetic condition caused by overexposure to fluoride frying the first eight years of life.

It is a harmless condition which tends to develop before the teeth break through the gums.

Another common cause of white spots on your teeth is enamel hypoplasia which happens when a person’s teeth enamel does not form properly.

Enamel hypoplasia also happens during childhood when a person’s teeth are still developing, but unlike fluorosis, there is a risk of tooth decay with this condition.

White spots can also be caused by poor dental hygiene, especially while wearing braces, or eating too many sugary and acidic foods.

How to prevent white spots on teeth

There are a number of preventative measures you can implement to protect your teeth and prevent white spots from developing.

Good dental hygiene

Most people can prevent the appearance of white spots by brushing their teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing between their teeth once daily.

It is important to encourage good dental practices from an early age to ensure this behaviour continues into adulthood.

Fluoride-free water

You can prevent white spots in children by feeding babies who primarily feed on infant formula, formula created with fluoride-free water.

This can help prevent an excess of fluoride on their teeth.

Using the right amount of toothpaste

You can furthermore prevent white spots by using the correct amount of toothpaste.

For children under three years old, no more than a grain of rice should be used, while children aged three and above should use a pea-sized amount.

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Reducing intake of sugary and acidic foods

One of the most effective ways to prevent tooth enamel and other dental issues is to reduce highly sugary and acidic teeth.

Food and drinks to be aware of include citric juices and fruits, sugary sweets, fizzy drinks and other drinks high in sugars.

Drinking water while consuming high sugar and acid foods can help to wash them off your teeth and reduce the chance of damage.

Also, drinking fizzy drinks and other potentially damaging liquids using a straw can also help protect your teeth.

Dentist

Anyone particularly concerned about white spots on their teeth should seek professional advice from your dentist.

White spots can be less desirable but are not usually a cause for concern.

If you are concerned about them however your dentist can provide better insight, advice and guidance about how to treat them.

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