How To Treat Enamel Hypoplasia

Enamel hypoplasia is a condition that affects developing teeth. The enamel is the strong protective outer surface of the teeth. Made up mainly of minerals, enamel is the part of teeth that makes them white. While teeth are still forming beneath the gums, the enamel may not form properly. Underdeveloped or thin enamel is called enamel hypoplasia. Because teeth do not always develop at the same rate, only a portion of one or more teeth may be affected. Enamel hypoplasia can be identified by teet discoloration, grooves in the surface, or white lines or spots on the surface of the teeth. In some cases where the enamel is seriously weakened, teeth may appear brown. Although enamel cannot grow back once it is lost, there are certain steps patients can take to strengthen their enamel and make their teeth look better.

Enamel Microabrasion

The dentist can use a combination of mechanical and chemical means to even out discoloration in the teeth. With enamel microabrasion, the discolored parts of each tooth are corrected to match the surrounding teeth. The dentist will use a tool to remove just a small portion of the affected enamel to even out the coloring. If white spots are removed, this may be all that is needed. However, in some cases, the dentist will also use a special paste that may help in the remineralization of the tooth enamel. Additionally, a patient's dental care provider may wish to use a process that fills and strengthens enamel that is very thin and weak.

Read more about the various options for effectively treating enamel hypoplasia now.

Dental Whitening From A Professional

Some patients may become so frustrated with light and dark spots on their visible teeth that they are tempted to use at-home whitening products. What many may not know is these products contain ingredients that may not be very effective but can actually be extremely damaging to even healthy enamel. Using these products on weakened enamel can cause damage, which can lead to the development of cavities. This is why it is always best to seek out dental whitening from a professional. A dentist can determine the products best for a patient's teeth that are both gentle and effective.

Get more details on the different methods on the table for treating enamel hypoplasia now.