Black Friday special for Zoom whitening
Eliminate Unsightly White Spots From Your Teeth
White spots on teeth can appear for various reasons, from childhood fluorosis to demineralization from braces, creating an uneven appearance that stands out against your natural tooth color. These bright patches can make you self-conscious about your smile, especially in photos or during close conversations. While white spots don’t typically cause pain or sensitivity, their cosmetic impact can significantly affect your confidence and willingness to smile freely.
South Hills Dental Arts brings 35 years of experience in cosmetic dentistry to help restore your smile’s uniform appearance. Our comprehensive approach examines the underlying cause of your white spots to determine the most effective treatment path. With advanced technology like microabrasion and Digital Smile Design, we can show you exactly how your teeth will look after treatment, giving you confidence in your decision before we begin.
What Causes White Spots on Your Teeth?
White spots, technically known as hypocalcification or hypoplasia, occur when tooth enamel loses minerals or doesn’t form properly. The most common cause is demineralization, which happens when acids from bacteria in plaque attack the enamel surface. This process often occurs around orthodontic brackets where cleaning is challenging, leaving telltale white marks after braces removal.
Fluorosis presents another common cause, occurring when developing teeth encounter excessive fluoride during childhood. While fluoride strengthens teeth in appropriate amounts, too much during tooth formation can create white or brown spots on the enamel surface. Other causes include enamel hypoplasia from childhood illness or trauma, certain medications during tooth development, and nutritional deficiencies during crucial developmental periods.
Modern Treatment Options for White Spot Removal
Our approach to white spot removal begins with identifying the depth and cause of your spots, as this determines the most effective treatment method. For surface-level spots, we often start with microabrasion, a minimally invasive technique that gently removes the superficial layer of affected enamel. This procedure uses a special compound containing mild acid and abrasive particles to polish away discoloration while preserving healthy tooth structure.
The Icon resin infiltration system represents one of the most innovative treatments for white spots. This revolutionary approach fills the porous areas of demineralized enamel with a special resin that matches your natural tooth color. The treatment requires no drilling or anesthesia and can often be completed in a single visit. The resin penetrates deep into the lesion, creating a uniform appearance that blends seamlessly with the surrounding enamel.
For deeper or more stubborn white spots, professional whitening combined with remineralization therapy can help even out tooth color. Our teeth whitening treatments can help blend the appearance of white spots by lightening the surrounding enamel, creating a more uniform shade. We then follow up with remineralization treatments using prescription-strength fluoride and calcium phosphate preparations to strengthen the affected areas.
Advanced Cosmetic Solutions
When white spots prove resistant to conservative treatments, our cosmetic dentistry options provide excellent alternatives. Dental bonding provides a quick and affordable solution, where we apply tooth-colored composite resin directly to the affected areas. Our skilled dentists sculpt and polish the material to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, effectively masking white spots while preserving the maximum amount of tooth structure.
For more extensive discoloration or when patients desire a complete smile makeover,porcelain veneers provide the ultimate solution. These thin ceramic shells cover the entire front surface of affected teeth, creating a flawless, uniform appearance. Thanks to our CEREC technology and same-day porcelain capabilities, you can often receive your custom veneers in just one appointment.
White Spot Prevention and Maintenance
Preventing new white spots requires diligent oral hygiene and regular professional care. Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, paying special attention to the areas around any dental work. Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth where white spots commonly form. Limit acidic foods and beverages that can demineralize enamel, and rinse with water after consuming them.
For patients undergoing orthodontic treatment, we recommend extra vigilance in cleaning around brackets and wires. Consider using an electric toothbrush with an orthodontic head, water flossers for thorough cleaning between brackets, and prescription fluoride rinses to strengthen enamel during treatment. Regular professional cleanings every three to four months during orthodontic treatment can help prevent white spot formation.
The White Spot Removal Treatment Process
Your white spot removal journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation using our intraoral cameras and digital imaging technology. These tools allow us to assess the depth and extent of discoloration while showing you exactly what we see. We’ll discuss your concerns, goals, and lifestyle to recommend the most appropriate treatment approach.
During treatment, we prioritize your comfort with our virtually painless anesthesia system when needed. Most white spot treatments require minimal to no anesthesia, making them comfortable procedures. Our calming amenities, including aromatherapy and soothing music, help you relax throughout your visit. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal results and long-lasting improvements.
How Long Does White Spot Removal Last?
The longevity of white spot removal depends on the treatment method chosen and your ongoing oral care. Microabrasion results are permanent, as we’ve removed the affected enamel layer. Icon resin infiltration typically lasts many years with proper care. Bonding may need touch-ups every few years, while veneers can last 10-15 years or longer.
Maintaining your results requires consistent oral hygiene and regular dental visits. We’ll monitor treated areas during your routine checkups and recommend preventive measures to avoid new white spots. Our comprehensive approach to oral health ensures your entire smile stays healthy and beautiful for years to come.
Your Path to a Uniform Smile With South Hills Dental Arts
At South Hills Dental Arts, we understand that white spots can affect your confidence, even if they are purely cosmetic concerns. Our team combines technical excellence with compassionate care to help you achieve the even, beautiful smile you desire. With multiple treatment options and advanced technology at our disposal, we can customize a solution that fits your needs, timeline, and budget.
Take the first step toward eliminating white spots and restoring your smile’s natural beauty. Schedule your free virtual consultation by sending us photos of your teeth, and our treatment coordinators will provide personalized recommendations through a video response. Contact us today at (412) 668-5468 to explore your options, or fill out our contact form to learn more about the experienced professionals dedicated to transforming your smile.
