How to Remove White Spots on Teeth Naturally?
[M.D.S. (Ortho), Fellow ICOI]
Are those stubborn white spots on your teeth bothering you?
White spots on teeth, also known as dental fluorosis, can affect your smile. They usually occur due to mineral loss from the tooth enamel, which may result from too much fluoride during childhood or poor dental hygiene.
Get to know some natural remedies to help you get rid of these and regain your confident smile back.
What are white spots on teeth?
White spots on teeth are light-colored marks that form on the surface of the enamel. However, before seeing the solutions, one must understand what caused them in the first place. Here is a breakdown of the causes of this issue:
Excessive Fluoride
One of the primary culprits behind white spots is excessive fluoride intake, especially during childhood.
Poor Dental Hygiene
Neglecting proper oral care can contribute to the formation of plaque. Further, this contributes to the formation of white spots.
Dietary Factors
Eating acidic or sugary foods and drinks can wear away your tooth enamel. This also results in the development of white spots.
Enamel Hypoplasia
Conditions such as enamel hypoplasia disrupt enamel formation during tooth development. It can also contribute to the appearance of white spots on teeth.
Orthodontic Treatment
White spots may develop as a result of orthodontic treatment. This mainly happens if proper oral hygiene is not maintained while wearing braces or other dental appliances.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as celiac disease or acid reflux, can affect tooth enamel. Likewise, it increases the risk of white spot formation.
Medications
Some medications can cause white spots to develop on teeth. The medicines, including certain antibiotics like tetracycline, can be the reason for this issue. This situation occurs especially during childhood while teeth are still developing.
Genetics
Genetics may play a role in the susceptibility to white spot formation. Some individuals are more predisposed to developing these spots due to their genetic makeup.
Natural remedies to remove white spots on teeth
Looking to remove those pesky white spots on your teeth? Here are some natural remedies to help you achieve that:
Oil Pulling
This age-old Ayurvedic treatment will draw out toxins and impurities. You can utilize sesame or coconut oil for this technique.
Baking Soda Paste
Create a paste using baking soda and water. Then, gently brush your teeth with it to buff away surface stains and lighten white spots.
Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Mix apple cider vinegar with water to dilute it, then use it as a mouth rinse. It will help balance the pH levels in your mouth and reduce the appearance of white spots.
Activated Charcoal
Brushing your teeth with activated charcoal powder can help absorb toxins and stains. Besides, it leaves your teeth looking brighter and whiter.
Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation
Ensure that you are taking an adequate amount of calcium and vitamin D. This can strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent white spots from forming.
Dairy Consumption
Intake of dairy products such as cheese, milk, and yogurt into your diet. If you do so, your teeth will gain calcium and other essential minerals for enamel strength.
Vitamin-rich Foods
Consume foods rich in vitamins C and E, such as citrus fruits, berries, nuts, and seeds. Along with promoting healthy gums, it will also prevent white spot formation.
Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash
Rinse your mouth with a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution to kill bacteria and whiten teeth naturally.
Always remember to seek advice from your dentist or healthcare provider before trying any new remedies. This note is for those who have underlying dental issues or sensitivities.
Can you prevent white spots on teeth?
Preventing white spots on your teeth is key to maintaining a bright, confident smile. Below are some practical tips to help you keep those pesky spots at bay:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
The first and essential tip is to brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly.
Limit Acidic and Sugary Foods
Minimize your intake of acidic and sugary foods and beverages because they can weaken tooth enamel and contribute to white spot formation.
Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated helps stimulate saliva production. Why? As saliva plays a crucial role in remineralizing tooth enamel and preventing white spots.
Use Fluoride Sparingly
While fluoride is essential for dental health, excessive exposure can lead to white spots. Use fluoride toothpaste in moderation and consider alternative fluoride-free dental products.
Consult your Doctor Regularly
Make sure to visit your dentist regularly for routine check-ups to keep optimal oral health.
Incorporate these natural remedies and preventive measures into your dental care routine. Following them, you can effectively combat white spots on your teeth and achieve a brighter, healthier smile.
To Conclude
Coping with white spots on your teeth can be quite frustrating. Yet, with the right approach, you can effectively tackle them without resorting to harsh chemicals or invasive procedures. Opt for natural remedies and adopt good oral hygiene habits. These tips will restore your smile’s natural beauty and boost your overall confidence.
