If you had an early-stage dental infection, would you be able to recognize it? We’re committed to preventive care at Healthy Smiles Family Dental in Salem. As part of our effort, we want each of our patients to understand what a white spot lesion signifies and what they need to do if they develop one.
As the first sign of tooth decay, white spot lesions are also known as “incipient lesions.” They are spots on the surfaces of teeth that appear unnaturally white and chalky and are usually found near the gum line or the sides of teeth. White spots are caused by enamel having lost minerals, but not enough to form a cavity. The teeth naturally produce a film which sugar and the bacteria that feed on it get trapped in. As bacteria eat, they excrete acid, which erodes the enamel. The more food is available, the more bacteria multiply, and the more acid is produced.
It only takes about a month for white spots to develop. Patients should take them as a sign they need to improve their brushing, particularly if they see white spots developing around orthodontic brackets. Infections can be halted before any permanent damage is done, but at the patient’s next cleaning, we’ll need to inspect the lesions to see if they’re still active. Although teeth cannot rebuild matter lost to a cavity, they can recover their minerals. If a white spot has become a permanent scar, we may be able to cover it with a veneer or bonding.
Dr. Na Xu operates Healthy Smiles Family Dental at 2601 25th St SE #400, Salem, Oregon, 97302. Visit My Family Dentist Salem or call 503-385-1185.
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