White spots or white marks aka. white spot lesions can be a sign of early decay. They occur as a result of subsurface enamel demineralisation / decalcification which can be the result of prolonged, undisturbed plaque accumulation, usually due to poor or inadequate oral hygiene. They can form in as little as 4 weeks and left unchecked the surface can collapse leaving the tooth cavitated. (A hole). (Ref)
Why do you get white spots?
Three main sources: 1. Decay 2. Developmental defects 3. Fluorosis.
If the spots are developed after the tooth came up then likely decay. If spots were present when the permanent teeth came up, then potentially fluorosis. If there is also mottling, potentially a developmental defect. Refer to your dentist for advice. BioMin can assist with the remineralisation of early decay and is showing very promising results helping (not curing) patients with developmental defects such as hypo mineralisation / chalky teeth.
Decay: Acids and sugars:
Acids dissolve the minerals that make up the tooth’s enamel called demineralisation. Acidic foods & acid created by bacteria (in plaque) demineralise teeth (decay), left unchecked cavities can form. A remineralising agent can assist to restore early mineral loss.
Decay: Braces and orthodontics:
Braces making cleaning of teeth difficult, plaque can easily develop around the brackets that hold the braces in place. White spots / white marks have been found to develop in 50% orthodontic patients 1 in as little as 4 weeks 2.
Development defects: (Hypocalcification / Hypo mineralisation):
On occasion when the tooth is being formed insufficient calcium is deposited, and the enamel does not form properly (hypo-mineralisation). There is no solution to fix these teeth, however remineralising agents have been shown to deliver positive results.
Fluorosis:
Too much fluoride when permanent teeth are formed can cause fluorosis, that show up as white spots. Generally, fluorosis cannot be reversed but the colour difference can try to be reduced.
