My dentist says the white spots on my teeth are lesions. I have an appointment to discuss treatment options. So far, I’ve read that these things might work: Curodont, resin infiltration, resin sealants, and silver diamine fluoride. Anything else I should ask my dentist about? Will I need fillings? Thanks. Katie from Nashville
Katie,
White spot lesions on teeth
White spot lesions, which develop when acids from bacteria remove minerals from the enamel. The enamel becomes porous and turns white or chalky. In the earliest stage, the enamel surface stays intact. As decay progresses, the weakening extends deeper toward the dentin. Eventually, the enamel can lose enough support to collapse and form a cavity. Intact tooth enamel sometimes responds well to remineralization, while areas with cavities may require restorative treatment.
Which Tooth Enamel Lesions Can Heal Naturally?
Early lesions can sometimes re-mineralize. Saliva naturally contains calcium and phosphate that help strengthen enamel. Fluoride also supports this repair by helping enamel attract and retain minerals. Once the lesion becomes soft, develops a surface defect, or penetrates deeply into the tooth, remineralization becomes less likely. Unfortunately, even dentists cannot always determine the exact depth of a lesion just by looking at it. X-rays often help guide treatment decisions.
What Is the Treatment for Tooth Enamel Lesions?
Several professional treatments may help slow or stop early decay. The best option depends on whether the enamel surface remains intact. Treatment works best before significant cavitation develops.
Dentists may recommend:
- Fluoride products to strengthen enamel
- Curodont to encourage remineralization
- Resin infiltration to reinforce weakened enamel from within
- Silver diamine fluoride to arrest bacterial activity
- Sealants to protect susceptible grooves and pits
Can a Mouthguard Increase Your Risk for Cavities?
A mouthguard can contribute to decay if you wear it without brushing first. When plaque and food debris remain trapped beneath a mouthguard, bacteria gain more opportunity to produce acid against the teeth. If you clean your teeth thoroughly before wearing the mouthguard, however, the appliance itself should not increase your risk of cavities.
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