My teeth are blotchy from enamel hypoplasia. I haven’t done anything about it, but now that I’m 27, I cannot ignore it. The older I get, the more self-conscious I become about my smile. I am vegan and use natural products as much as possible, so I prefer a solution for my teeth that matches my lifestyle and will not unnecessarily expose me to harsh chemicals or metals. Do I have biocompatible options for making my teeth look better? – Thank you. Cheyenne from NM
Cheyenne,
Thank you for contacting Dr. Thomas’s office. Although Dr. Thomas would need to examine your teeth and x-ray them before explaining your treatment options, we will discuss treatment in general.
What Is Enamel Hypoplasia?
Enamel hypoplasia is a hereditary or environmental defect in the formation of enamel in developing teeth. The condition can affect primary and permanent teeth, one tooth, or multiple teeth.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Enamel Hypoplasia?
Enamel hypoplasia can affect the appearance of your teeth and how they feel. Signs and symptoms include:
- Brown stains or spots dentin (the layer beneath the enamel) exposure
- Cold and heat sensitivity
- Pits or depressions in teeth
- Thin tooth enamel
- Tooth decay
- White spots
- Worn teeth
How Do Dentists Treat Enamel Hypoplasia?
Treatment of hypoplasia depends on its severity. Treatment from a cosmetic dentist that practices holistic dentistry may include direct composite bonding, porcelain veneers, or ceramic crowns. All are biocompatible, metal-free, mercury-free options.
Mild enamel hypoplasia
Mild hypoplasia may be limited to white spots on your teeth. An advanced cosmetic dentist can use this method with composite bonding:
- Drill out the surface of white spots on each affected tooth
- Fill in the space with a high-gloss composite
- Leave tiny spots untreated or apply composite depending on your preference
- Smooth, polish, and shine the composite
Severe enamel hypoplasia
Severe enamel hypoplasia causes deep ridges in the enamel that often turn brown. Missing areas of enamel, white spots, and pits in teeth may occur. A skilled cosmetic dentist may use one of these methods for severe cases:
- Apply porcelain veneers to the affected teeth
- Use dental crowns if the backs of teeth are severely damaged
Cosmetic dentists with advanced training have high-gloss, translucent composites to match the shade of your teeth and look natural. We recommend scheduling consultations with two skilled cosmetic dentists to discuss your treatment options. In either case, look for a cosmetic dentist who practices holistic dentistry and will only use biocompatible materials on your teeth.
Sugar Land, Texas cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas, sponsors this post.