November 17, 2016
Decalcification occurs when the teeth lose minerals and strength, mainly because of the consumption of acidic foods and drinks. The problem can also occur because of the overconsumption of sugary foods or poor oral hygiene. Bacteria in your teeth will quickly convert the carbohydrates and sugars to acid. The resulting pH imbalance in the mouth makes the teeth lose calcium, minerals, and phosphates. Eventually, the teeth will have white spots, meaning they are losing calcium. This problem also affects other bones in the body. In this post, we're going to show you how to deal with this oral issue. Let’s dive right in.
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White Spots and Orthodontic Treatment
- This problem commonly affects people with braces. If you notice white spots on your teeth when you remove your Invisalign treatments, you should notify your doctor. Beyond a point, the condition can affect your teeth by causing decay. The dental expert is unlikely to continue treatment if they notice white spots forming under the cosmetic treatments.
What Can You Do To Prevent Decalcification?
Many people start to lose calcium in their teeth after getting their cosmetic dental treatments. This is primarily because they don’t brush their teeth under cosmetic devices, and this allows plaque to accumulate. The parts of the teeth hidden by the devices will usually have white spots for this reason. That means you should take extra steps to prevent this condition. Here are some tips to help you:
- Avoid eating and drinking acidic foods
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks
- Brush your teeth regularly. Leaving plaque to accumulate on your teeth will lead to the loss of calcium.
- Don’t allow your mouth to dry. Saliva balances the pH of the mouth by neutralizing acidic elements.
- Eating a balanced diet regularly can also help to prevent this condition.
Can You Reverse the Problem?
- This condition is treatable. Once reversed, you will be able to continue with your orthodontic treatment.
Fluoride Therapy
- A simple method used to reverse decalcification is the use of fluoride. This therapy helps to demineralize the teeth. It is important to consult your doctor before taking any of these products since they can be dangerous when taken in large amounts. Commonly, fluoride is used to prevent cavities and tooth decay. It is so effective at preventing this problem that the public health sector considers fluoride one of its biggest accomplishments. Fluoride helps to prevent these dental problems by demineralizing the enamel. This makes the tooth stronger and more resistant to acidity.
- The same concept can be used to treat white spots on the teeth. Fluoride ions inhibit the enzyme enolase in bacteria glycolysis, and this prevents the production of acid in the mouth. Fluoride can be delivered through the water, milk, salt, gels, varnishes, rinses, and other supplements. These supplements come in the form of tablets, capsules, and drops. The chemical is more readily absorbed from water as compared to milk. The chemical should be limited in people whose teeth are still growing. It can easily make the teeth yellow, brown, or white.
Microabrasion
- Microabrasion involves the removal of the top layer of the enamel, leaving an economy of tissues. The results from these procedures are usually permanent and can offer considerable aesthetic benefits. In the case of tooth discoloration, you can simply use carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide products. The thinness of the enamel layer can influence the yellowing of the teeth, but it can quickly be reversed with these chemicals.
Composite Bonding
- This does not necessarily solve the underlying issue, but it covers it up sufficiently. The procedure is mainly used to solve issues relating to staining and chipping of teeth. An advantage of this procedure is the fact that it can be completed in a single day. Composite bonding is sometimes covered by health insurance, partly or fully, so you should enquire before going for the procedure.
- The doctor will start by removing part of the enamel surface then they will shape the composite resin to suit your tooth. They will then apply the bonding agent to your tooth and then add the composite resin. Finally, they will use a special light to cure it and then polish the teeth.
Bleaching
- You can also choose to bleach your teeth to camouflage the white spots. Ideally, you should go for an-in office procedure as this will offer you the safest results. Another alternative is to use a take-home kit that is supervised by a qualified doctor. Using over-the-counter tooth whitening products can produce very slow results.
Veneers
- These are thin pieces of porcelain that are used to strengthen the enamel part of the tooth. Primarily, they are meant to serve as cosmetic treatments that help to recreate the natural look of teeth. Veneers are bonded to the enamel of your teeth in several procedures. Unlike composite resins, these cannot be completed in a single visit. Besides tooth whitening, this treatment can be used to correct crooked teeth, fractures, and chips.
- If your teeth are sensitive, your orthodontist may use local anesthesia. This is not usually necessary. They will then clean the tooth and shape the veneer to suit your enamel. A small amount of your tooth’s enamel will then be removed for the veneer to be added. The veneer has to be made in the lab so that the orthodontist will take an impression of your enamel at this point. Once it has been made, it will be etched to your teeth and air-dried. An adhesive will be applied to the preparation, and then the veneer will be placed to fit perfectly. It will then be light-cured and polished.
Resuming Treatment after Reversing Decalcification
- Once you treat the problem, your orthodontist will be able to carry on with the cosmetic treatment. You will need to observe oral hygiene to prevent the problem from recurring in the future. Follow the tips listed above to avoid getting white spots on your teeth.
Conclusion
Decalcification on teeth is not just a cosmetic problem. The loss of calcium from teeth can make them weaker and unhealthy. This is why doctors usually stop orthodontic treatment when they notice signs of this condition. Invisalign treatments and braces can make it harder for people to observe oral hygiene, and this is why dental experts don’t encourage people to wear them when they have white spots on their teeth. At KingSmiles we understand your issues in regards to all things orthodontic. Dr. King is ready to take your call. Contact us today for the smile of your life.
- Which tip will you try first???
- Either way, let us know by leaving a comment below right now and continue the conversation over @KingOrthoOH
Ever Wondered what Decalcification means? | 9 QUICK FACTS