White Spot Lesions – Formation, Prevention and Treatment
White Spot Lesions – Formation, Prevention and Treatment
Individuals who have fixed orthodontic appliances often have issues with white spot lesions. As the appliances are worn, the enamel surface will experience decalcification which shows up as white spot lesions. Some people will have a major issue with the lesions while others barely any problems. If the lesions are not dealt with it can lead to cavitation’s as well as aesthetic issues. White spot lesions – formation, prevention and treatment.
Formation of White Spot Lesions
Orthodontic patients with white spot lesions find they appear as small lines along with the brackets. In some cases where are cavitation issues while others do not have this problem. It is essential that patients who have orthodontic appliances care for their teeth properly. With improper oral hygiene, there will be a low resting pH plaque that can reduce fluoride therapy.
When patients practise good oral hygiene habits, using fluoride toothpaste and rinsing out their mouth, it has a positive effect. Research has shown that proper hygiene will help to decrease the low pH level which leads to issues.
Evaluation
When a patient has an orthodontic appliance, they must attend regular appointments. Offices like Kingsley Orthodontics will review the patient’s progress and check for white spot lesions during appointments. Evaluating the moth will help to spot any lesions and provide protective, preventative and corrective therapies as needed.
The first step in the process is the evaluation of decalcification. Next, the severity of the lesion must be considered. How severe the lesion is will depend on the brightness of the spot as well as the size. With a review by a dentist, the area can be treated based on need.
Prevention
One of the best ways to prevent white spot lesions is to avoid breaking ongoing demineralization in the mouth. You can also work to prevent demineralization on the surface of the teeth. With both decreasing demineralization and remineralization, the process involves attending regular oral hygiene appointments while wearing the appliance, oral hygiene motivation, using topical agents and adhesives that have fluoride.
Overall, if a patient has good oral hygiene while wearing the appliance, they will be able to maintain the appropriate pH level in the mouth. If oral hygiene is poor, there will be mineral loss which can lead to critically low pH levels for a long period of time. It is important to care for the teeth to reduce the amount of plaque that is on the tooth surface. Tooth brushing and mouth wash can help in this regard.
For the patient, it is important to care for the teeth properly and speak to the dentist when any issues arise. If you have trouble caring for your teeth, make an appointment with your dentist for tips on how to maintain proper oral hygiene while you wear the appliance. Don’t be shy about asking questions. By learning more about how you can care for your teeth and gums, you can avoid such issues as white spot lesions, a common occurrence when wearing appliances like braces for an extended period of time.
With proper care, you can avoid issues and look forward to a lovely smile once the appliance is removed.