Completing orthodontic treatment and finally getting your braces off is an exciting process. However, some patients may notice white spots left behind on their teeth after the braces are removed. These white spots, known as white spot lesions, are often caused by plaque buildup and demineralization of the enamel during treatment. In addition, there are several effective treatments available from our dentist in Glendale to reduce or eliminate these white spots, helping you achieve the bright, uniform smile you’ve been waiting for.
What Causes White Spots?
White spots are areas of demineralized enamel, which occur when plaque accumulates on the surface of the teeth and is not adequately removed. The plaque contains bacteria that produce acids, which, over time, cause the enamel to lose essential minerals, leading to these chalky white areas. Braces create additional challenges for maintaining oral hygiene, as brackets and wires make it more difficult to brush and floss effectively, leading to a higher risk of developing white spots.
Professional Fluoride Treatments
One of the most common treatments for white spots after braces is the use of professional fluoride treatments. Fluoride helps to remineralize affected spots of the enamel and can make the white spots less visible over time. Dentists may apply a high-concentration fluoride varnish or gel directly to the white spots during your dental visit. This helps replenish lost minerals and strengthens the enamel, which can gradually reduce the appearance of the white spots.
MI Paste
MI Paste is a product that contains calcium and phosphate, which are essential minerals for enamel remineralization. It works similarly to fluoride treatments, helping to restore the minerals that have been lost from the enamel. MI Paste is applied directly to the white spots, and it can be used at home as part of your oral care routine. Over time, the application of MI Paste can help reduce the visibility of white spots and improve the overall health of your enamel.
Icon Resin Infiltration
Icon resin infiltration is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat white spot lesions without the need for drilling or removing tooth structure. During this treatment, your dentist will apply a special resin to the affected areas. The resin infiltrates the porous white spots and is then hardened with a curing light solution. This process helps to blend the white spots with the surrounding healthy enamel, making them less noticeable. Icon resin infiltration is an effective option for patients looking for immediate improvement in the appearance of white spots.
Teeth Whitening
In some cases, teeth whitening may be recommended to help improve the appearance of white spots. Whitening treatments can help even out the color of your teeth and make the white spots less noticeable. However, it’s important to note that whitening may not completely eliminate the white spots, as they can sometimes appear brighter initially. Whitening is often used in combination with other treatments, such as fluoride or MI Paste, for the best results.
Oral Hygiene
While professional treatments can effectively reduce the appearance of white spots, maintaining a consistent oral hygiene schedule is essential for preventing further demineralization and keeping your smile healthy. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and use an electric toothbrush if possible, as it can be more effective at removing plaque. Practice regular flossing, and consider using an interdental brush or water flosser to clean around brackets and wires if you’re still undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Using a fluoride mouthwash can also help strengthen your enamel and protect against future white spots. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial for monitoring your oral health and ensuring that any issues are addressed promptly.
White spots after braces are a common concern, but they can be effectively treated with a variety of methods, from professional fluoride treatments and MI Paste to more advanced options like Icon resin infiltration. The key to preventing white spots is maintaining excellent oral hygiene throughout your orthodontic treatment and following your dentist’s recommendations for post-braces care. At Pacific Dental Care, serving Glendale and Burbank, we’re here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. If you’re concerned about white spots after braces, contact us today to learn more about your treatment options and how we can help restore your confident smile.