Many dental patients seek treatment for white spots present on tooth surface especially front teeth. There are two main causes for them to occur; Enamel hypoplasia and demineralization.
Enamel Hoplasia: Tooth enamel comprises mainly of Calcium and Phosphate ions and its average thickness is 2.58 mm. Enamel hypoplasia is a defect of the enamel that results in thinner enamel formation. It occurs during development stage of a tooth and it can affect milk teeth as well as adult teeth. Its causes may include; vitamin deficiency, premature birth, medicines used by mothers at the time of birth and trauma to tooth bud.
Affected teeth may appear discolored, pitted, or grooved and are more prone to decay. Treatment includes fluoride applications, dental sealants, or restorative options like tooth -colored fillings or crowns to protect teeth and improve their appearance and function.
Demineralization: Demineralization is loss of minerals (Calcium & Phosphates) from the enamel. It clinically manifests as `white spots on tooth enamel surface. Dental plaque present on tooth surface contain loads of oral bacteria. These bacteria in the presence of sugar of the consumed food, produce acid which reduces the saliva pH and decalcify (demineralize) the enamel. If this situation is early detected and treated, the tooth is preserved from cavitation.
