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What Causes Spots on Baby Teeth?

August 4, 2020

What Causes Spots on Baby Teeth?

Parents eagerly await that special moment when the first tiny pearly white comes in. Even though baby teeth are temporary, they play a significant role in a child’s development, so it’s essential to keep them healthy and sound. So what happens if you notice spots on your little one’s teeth? While you don’t want to panic, a visit to Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry will allow for prompt treatment to safeguard your child’s oral health. We are all about healthy, happy smiles!

Tooth Decay and Cavities

The first warning signs of tooth decay in children are often white spots that appear along the gumline that usually have a dry, chalky appearance. These early decay spots result from mineral loss from the enamel, a process known as demineralization. The good news is that this point the decay is still reversible. If the condition continues to progress, the white spots will eventually turn yellow or brown and may require more extensive treatments.

Once you notice white spots on your child’s teeth, schedule an appointment with Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. We will clean off any plaque or tartar and may recommend a gentle fluoride treatment, which will help reverse the decay by strengthening the tooth enamel and making it resistant to the acid attacks that wear the teeth over time. Moreover, fluoride replaces the missing minerals restoring your child’s oral health.

Dental Fluorosis

Sometimes white spots on baby teeth can be a sign of too much fluoride, a condition known as fluorosis. Fluoride offers multiple benefits to your child’s teeth, strengthening and protecting the tooth enamel. But, just like most good things, it’s possible to get too much of it. The good news is that your child can only develop the condition while the teeth are still forming below the gum surface, and once the permanent teeth come in, the risk for fluorosis drops. Moreover, the fluorosis spots are not weak spots on your child’s teeth. In fact, they tend to be stronger than the surrounding enamel. So while they pose a cosmetic concern, they are not a problem from an oral health standpoint. A visit to your child’s pediatric dentist will help determine if your child’s fluoride intake is adequate.

Calcium Deposits

White spots on baby teeth could also result from calcification and adhesion of dental plaque to your little one’s teeth. If this is the case, we may recommend a professional cleaning to treat the affected area.

How to Prevent Future Spots on Your Child’s Teeth

Promoting healthy habits early on is the best way to avoid spots forming on your child’s baby teeth. Encourage proper brushing habits, pay attention to fluoride intake, limit the consumption of sugary treats or drinks, and make sure your child consumes a balanced diet. And don’t forget to schedule your child’s routine dental exams and cleanings to allow us to monitor your child’s oral health and treat any issues as they surface. These preventative practices will help safeguard your child’s oral health and keep dental disease at bay.

Quality Pediatric Dentistry in Phoenix, AZ

Visit Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about keeping your child’s oral health in tip-top shape. Our highly trained and experienced team is proud to offer quality preventative and restorative services to maintain your child’s healthy smile. We are committed to providing our valued young patients with outstanding, gentle care. Call us and schedule your child’s appointment today!