Symptoms · white spots on teeth
Why are there white spots on my teeth?
White spots on teeth are often an early sign of tooth decay, where enamel has lost minerals, especially along the gum line. They can also come from too much fluoride while teeth were forming, or from enamel that didn't develop fully. Early decay can often be reversed, so book a check-up at Y3 Smiles Dental in Broadmeadows.
Are white spots urgent?
Go to hospital or call 000
- Facial swelling that is spreading, with or without tooth pain
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
Call us today
- White or brown spots with toothache, or pain that wakes your child
- A swollen gum or pimple on the gum near the tooth
Book the next available time
- White spots or lines with no pain
- White flecks that have been there since the teeth came through
- Spots noticed after braces came off
Most white spots aren't urgent, but early decay is easier to reverse when it's found early. Book a check-up in the next few weeks.
What causes white spots on teeth?
- Early tooth decay. Acid from plaque bacteria draws minerals out of the enamel, leaving chalky white areas, often along the gum line or around braces.
- Fluorosis. Taking in too much fluoride while adult teeth are forming, usually from swallowing toothpaste as a young child, can cause faint white flecks or lines.
- Enamel that didn't form fully. Some teeth have patches of weaker, chalky enamel from development. These areas can be more prone to sensitivity and decay.
- An injury to a baby tooth, which can sometimes affect the adult tooth developing underneath.
How can you tell what kind of spot it is?
You can't always tell by looking. Early decay tends to appear near the gum line or between teeth and may look dull and chalky. Fluorosis usually shows as fine, even flecks on several teeth. Developmental patches can be larger and may look creamy or yellow-brown. A dentist can check the spots, and whether they are active or stable.
What can you do at home?
- Brush twice a day, using the right toothpaste for age: water only under 18 months, a pea-sized amount of children's fluoride toothpaste (or a non-fluoride alternative) from 18 months to six, and standard toothpaste from six. If a non-fluoride toothpaste is used, a check-up every four months is recommended.
- Spit, don't rinse, after brushing.
- Cut down on sugary snacks and drinks between meals, and offer water.
- Don't put a baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice.
How does a dentist treat white spots?
At a check-up and clean at Y3 Smiles Dental, we look at the spots, check for decay and talk about brushing and diet. Early decay can often be stopped with professional fluoride, good home care and monitoring over time. Fissure sealants can protect the grooves of back teeth. If decay has broken through the enamel, a tooth-coloured filling may be needed. If spots from development bother you or your child, we can talk about ways to make them less noticeable. Eligible children can have this care bulk billed under CDBS.
Other questions people ask
Can white spots go away?
Early decay spots can often be stopped and sometimes improve with fluoride, better brushing and less sugar. Spots from how the enamel formed usually stay, but they can often be made less noticeable if they bother you.
Are white spots on my toddler's teeth serious?
Chalky white lines near the gum on a toddler's front teeth can be early decay, which can progress quickly in baby teeth. Book a check-up soon rather than waiting.
Why did white spots appear after braces?
Plaque collecting around brackets can remove minerals from the enamel. A dentist can advise on fluoride and whether the spots need treatment.
Can whitening remove white spots?
Whitening can make white spots stand out more, not less. It isn't recommended for children. Talk to your dentist about options.
Is too much fluoride dangerous?
Mild white flecks from fluoride are a cosmetic issue, not harmful. Using the right amount of toothpaste for your child's age helps avoid them.