White spot lesions.

What is it?

These are the white opacities seen on the teeth as a result of enamel demineralization and a sign that caries process has begun.

What Causes it?

• Poor oral hygiene
• Increased intake of sugar content
• Frequent snacking
• Reduced salivary flow
• History of recent caries
• Lack of preventive measures(Fluoride applications)
• Increased orthodontic treatment time.

Where is it seen?

• High prevalence is on cervical and middle third of the crowns.
• First molars
• Maxillary lateral incisors
• Mandibular incisors and Canines .

How do you prevent them?

• Maintaing proper oral hygiene
• Mouth rinses
• Varnishes
• Change in the diet
• Fluoridated tooth paste

How to treat them?

• First allow natural remineralisation
• Low doses of fluoride applications
• Tooth whitening “Bleaching “
• Use of Casein derivatives
• Enamel Microabrasion
• Cosmetic restoration like Veneers
• Composite restoration/Build ups