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Cracks and white spots on teeth

Cracks and white spots on teeth

Causes and solutions

Often, if a person is not experiencing pain, the motivation to visit a dentist can be driven by external aesthetic concerns. Dissatisfaction with the reflection of one's smile in the mirror may arise from chips, cracks, and spots on tooth enamel, as well as changes in color and shade. Today, we'll discuss the most common manifestations: cracks and white spots that form on teeth.

Cracks in enamel are a common issue, affecting more than half of patients. Initially appearing as faint lines on teeth, they can grow and change color over time. Microcracks on tooth enamel are small fissures that may result from daily activities like chewing, brushing, and aging

While microcracks may be harmless and symptom-free, in some cases, they can lead to tooth sensitivity and pain when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods. To prevent the development of microcracks, it's recommended to monitor dental health, regularly visit the dentist, and maintain overall well-being through proper nutrition and dental care. If you notice sensitivity or any changes on your teeth's surface, prompt consultation with a dentist for diagnosis and treatment is advised.

Early-stage microcracks can be addressed with photopolymer varnish or composite material restoration, while deep fractures may require the application of veneers or crowns

What causes cracks in tooth enamel?

What causes cracks in tooth enamel?

The main reasons include:

  • Rapid temperature changes in food.
  • Vitamin deficiency.
  • Tooth injuries.
  • Prolonged use of whitening toothpaste.
  • Cavities or periodontitis.
  • Chewing strain: increased stress on teeth from chewing hard food or teeth grinding.
  • Dry mouth: insufficient saliva may reduce enamel protection and contribute to microcrack formation
  • Aging: teeth may wear down over time, becoming more prone to cracks.
  • Poor teeth whitening practices.
  • Smoking.
  • Incorrect dental procedures.
  • Improper or unprofessional at-home teeth whitening, using unsafe methods or substances not recommended by a dentist
    .

* Currently, in places like shopping centers, beauty salons, and airports, teeth whitening has become a popular but often unprofessionally performed service. Such procedures can lead to enamel cracks, so it's crucial to be cautious, responsible, and informed about the potential risks to your dental health.

Microcracks on teeth generally don't require treatment as they aren't a serious threat to dental health. However, if they cause pain or significantly increase tooth sensitivity, certain procedures may be necessary

Treatment methods for microcracks on teeth include:

Treatment methods for microcracks on teeth include:
  1. Tooth polishing: this method helps remove minor irregularities on enamel, reducing tooth sensitivity and preventing further microcrack development.
  2. Use of special toothpaste: some fluoride-containing toothpaste can reduce tooth sensitivity and protect against further damage.
  3. Tooth restoration: in some cases, a dentist may recommend tooth restoration if microcracks are in areas with existing fillings or restorations.
  1. Application of a protective overlay: a dentist may apply a protective overlay on teeth to prevent further microcrack development and protect against damage.
  2. Coating application: your dentist may apply a special protective coating on tooth surfaces to reduce sensitivity and prevent further microcrack development.
  3. problems, addressing these issues can help prevent their further development.

Preventing the Occurrence of Microcracks in Enamel

The following measures can help prevent microcracks on tooth enamel:

  1. Regular dental visits: Dental check-ups and professional oral hygiene can help detect tooth problems and prevent their further development.

  2. Avoiding hard and sticky foods: Excessive consumption of hard and sticky foods, such as candies and chewing gum, should be avoided to prevent mechanical damage to tooth enamel.

  3. Reducing acidic food and drink intake: Acid can erode tooth enamel, so it's recommended to reduce the consumption of acidic beverages and foods.

  4. Using fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride-containing toothpaste helps strengthen tooth enamel and reduces the risk of developing microcracks.

Preventing the Occurrence of Microcracks in Enamel

  1. Using protective mouthguards: During sports or activities where teeth may be subjected to mechanical damage, using protective mouthguards (caps) is recommended.

  2. Proper oral hygiene: Quality tooth brushing twice a day, using dental floss, and a special mouthwash can help reduce the risk of developing microcracks.

  3. Avoid excessive use of whitening agents: Excessive use of whitening products can cause dryness and weakening of tooth enamel, increasing the risk of microcrack formation.

  4. Entrust the beauty and health of your smile to trusted, experienced, and professional specialists to avoid complications and issues resulting from improperly conducted dental procedures.

White Spots on Teeth

White Spots on Teeth
What Could It Be?

This question is perhaps the most common in a dentist's office.

Where did it come from, and what should be done?

White spots on teeth are a clear sign that pathological processes are occurring in the oral cavity. They can be indicative of various dental and oral health problems.

Common causes of white spots on teeth include:

  • Demineralization of enamel: the leaching of minerals from tooth enamel, leading to the formation of white spots. This can occur due to acidic conditions in the oral cavity, such as consuming acidic beverages, or due to insufficient oral hygiene.
  • Enamel hypoplasia: a condition where tooth enamel forms irregularly or incompletely, resulting in the appearance of white or yellow spots on teeth. This condition can be hereditary or related to poor nutrition and inadequate dental care in childhood.
  • Initial caries: a white spot on a tooth appears where the enamel has started to weaken and break down due to acid action. The cause is a lack of calcium, poor or irregular hygiene.
  • Teeth whitening: unprofessional whitening and excessive use of cosmetic procedures that can lead to enamel weakening and deterioration.
  • Consumption of large amounts of acidic food: products high in acidity can erode tooth enamel, protecting your teeth from damage. These can include sodas, citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruit.
  • Fluorosis: while fluoride strengthens teeth and prevents cavities, excessive fluoride in developing teeth can have the opposite effect, causing cavities and discoloration. This can happen when children consume large amounts of fluoridated beverages or swallow fluoride toothpaste.
  • Dental plaque: white spots on teeth can also form due to the accumulation of bacterial plaque. This is the result of poor oral hygiene.
  • Dental treatment: some materials used in dental treatment may lead to the appearance of white spots. For example, the use of braces or orthodontic appliances may lead to enamel demineralization. It is essential that any dental treatment is carried out using modern techniques by knowledgeable and experienced professionals.
  • Inadequate oral hygiene: insufficient tooth cleaning and improper use of dental floss can lead to the buildup of bacteria and acidic products in the oral cavity, which may result in enamel demineralization.
  • Diseases: certain illnesses, such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease, can lead to the appearance of white spots on teeth.
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