White areas on teeth, particularly near the gumline, are common. This phenomenon can stem from various sources, ranging from simple, removable deposits to more intricate changes within the tooth structure itself. Understanding the underlying reasons for these white areas is important for maintaining optimal oral health.
White Deposits Near the Gumline
A primary culprit for white deposits is plaque, a soft, sticky, and usually colorless or pale yellow film composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. This biofilm continuously forms on tooth surfaces and, if not removed through regular brushing, can accumulate, appearing as a white, fuzzy layer. Plaque bacteria produce acids that can harm tooth enamel and gums.
When plaque is not removed promptly, it can harden and calcify due to minerals in saliva, transforming into tartar, also known as calculus. While tartar is commonly yellowish or brownish, newly formed or less stained tartar can appear white. Unlike plaque, tartar is firmly bonded to the tooth enamel and cannot be removed by regular brushing or flossing, requiring professional dental cleaning for its removal. Tartar tends to accumulate most frequently along the gumline and between teeth.
White Areas Due to Enamel Changes
White areas on teeth can also signify changes within the enamel itself, which are often more complex than surface deposits. One such change is demineralization, also known as white spot lesions, an early indicator of tooth decay. This occurs when the enamel loses essential minerals like calcium and phosphate, becoming more porous and appearing chalky white and opaque. Acid attacks, produced by bacteria consuming sugars, cause this mineral loss, with these lesions frequently observed near the gumline or around orthodontic brackets.
Another cause is fluorosis, a developmental condition resulting from excessive fluoride intake during tooth formation, typically before the age of eight. Fluorosis can manifest as white spots, streaks, or flecks on the enamel, which are often symmetrical across teeth. While mild forms may be barely noticeable, more severe cases can lead to more widespread discoloration or even pitting.
Enamel hypoplasia and hypomineralization are developmental defects where the enamel does not form properly. Enamel hypoplasia involves a deficiency in enamel quantity, resulting in pits, grooves, or missing enamel that can appear white or discolored. Hypomineralization, conversely, means enamel has normal thickness but is inadequately mineralized, making it softer, more porous, and susceptible to wear and decay, often appearing discolored or opaque. These conditions can arise from various factors during tooth development, including genetic predispositions, nutritional imbalances, or certain childhood illnesses.
Addressing and Preventing White Tooth Areas
If white areas are observed on teeth, consulting a dentist for a proper diagnosis is important. Professional guidance ensures appropriate intervention.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is key to preventing many white tooth areas. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing helps prevent plaque and tartar. Limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks is important, as these contribute to acid production and demineralization. Staying hydrated can help neutralize acids and maintain oral health.
Professional dental interventions can address existing white spots. Dentists can perform professional cleanings to remove tartar. For demineralized white spot lesions, fluoride treatments can help remineralize the enamel. Cosmetic treatments like resin infiltration (blending spots with surrounding enamel) or microabrasion (removing a thin enamel layer) may be considered for more permanent white spots. In some cases, veneers may be used to conceal white spots.