How to Treat White Spots on the Teeth
There are many types of dental stains that compromise the appearance of the smile. Most people expect dental stains to be yellow or brown in color, but sometimes white spots are a concern. Ideally, patients want the teeth to be white in color, but when some spots are whiter than others, it can stand out and detract from the beauty of the smile.
Cosmetic dentist John Goodman offers a wide range of cosmetic dentistry treatments to address aesthetic flaws. He can discuss the most appropriate treatment for white spots on the teeth with our Kansas City, MO, patients so that they can achieve the uniform white color they desire.
What Causes White Spots?
Before we discuss treatment options for white spots, we briefly explain what causes them. In most cases, white spots develop during childhood, but they do occasionally show up later in life. White spots are signs of damaged tooth enamel. White spots may be caused by overexposure to fluoride, the use of certain medications, or insufficient calcium intake.
White spots are classified as intrinsic stains because they usually affect deep layers of tooth enamel; they are not just superficial spots that can be removed. Because white spots do not react to traditional bleaching and teeth whitening techniques, our Kansas City patients may wish to consider alternate treatments.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a good treatment option if just a single tooth or a small set of teeth is affected by white spots. During dental bonding treatment, a tooth-colored compound is applied to the surface of the teeth. Dental bonding has many applications, but in terms of white spots, the compound would be used to cover up the dental stains.
Once the compound is applied, it is shaped to the tooth so that it looks like a natural part of the smile. Dental bonding is a fast and affordable way to conceal white spots, but patients should be aware that the results are temporary. Most patients require additional treatment within about five years.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic shells that sit over the facial surface of the teeth to improve their size, shape, and color. If numerous teeth are affected by white spots or if additional cosmetic flaws are present, porcelain veneers may be the best treatment option.
Like dental bonding, porcelain veneers hide white spots to make the teeth look more uniform in color. However, porcelain veneers are longer-lasting than dental bonding. These prosthetics are strong and durable. With proper care, porcelain veneers can last for upwards of 15 years.
Snap-On Smile®
Snap-On Smile is like a removable version of porcelain veneers. Snap-On Smile fits over the teeth like an aligner or whitening tray. The device fits comfortably and looks completely natural.
Snap-On Smile does not require any alteration to the natural teeth, and our Kansas City patients are free to wear their piece as frequently or infrequently as they desire to conceal white spots.
Contact Us
Dr. John Goodman offers a wide range of cosmetic dentistry treatments that can give you the whiter, more attractive teeth that you desire. Contact us to learn more about the services offered by our dental team, or call (816) 842-8585 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Goodman at your earliest convenience.
