White Spots on Teeth When Sick

Written by Dr. Brian Harris

August 07, 2023

Ever woken up, looked in the mirror, and said, 'Wait a minute, what's this? White spots on my teeth - I'm sick, that can't be right!'?

Well, you're not alone. There's been a surge in queries about these perplexing white spots appearing during illness. You might be scratching your head, asking, 'Why now?' or 'What gives?'.

Let’s dive into this toothy mystery and unmask the secrets behind white spots on teeth when sick. We'll decode the Whys and Hows of this peculiar tooth discoloration and, better yet, offer expert solutions for tackling these stubborn white spots. 

What this article covers:

Understanding Tooth Health: The Basics

Understanding tooth health is essential for tackling various dental anomalies, like the white stuff on teeth. You may be asking, 'What even is that?' Let's break it down.

white marks on teeth near gums

The white specks on teeth you occasionally notice are usually plaque accumulation or a thin layer of tartar, which can be more noticeable when you're ill. 

This particular tooth discoloration might also look like hard white stuff on teeth near the gums, making it challenging to maintain a bright, spotless smile. But don't worry - we're here to ‘spot’ you some tips!

Decoding White Spots On Teeth When You’re Sick

White spots on teeth when sick can be alarming, especially when you're already battling health issues. These white spots or specks are usually a sign of mineral loss that affects your tooth structure, a condition known as hypocalcification.

This can happen for several reasons - from poor oral hygiene to the side effects of certain medications, enamel hypoplasia, or even dehydration. Yes, you heard it right! White spots on teeth dehydration is a real thing!

The Dehydration Connection

Let's wet our lips a little by talking some more about that last point. Dehydration disrupts your mouth's normal functions, reducing saliva production - a crucial element that helps prevent tooth decay. 

When dehydration hits and saliva decreases, it creates an environment for bacteria to thrive, often leading to discoloration like white spots or specks on your teeth.

Navigating through the maze of dental health can be tricky, but we're here to make it easy as pie for you. 

why is one of my teeth whiter than the others

Your Diet

While you’re sick, a healthy diet is your best friend - not just for your overall health but for your teeth too! Surprised? It's true - what you eat can impact the appearance of white spots on your teeth when sick.

Dodging Acidic Foods And Drinks

When it comes to diet, it's not just about what you should eat but also what to avoid. Acidic foods, for instance, are a major culprit behind dental erosion, which can lead to the formation of white spots. The same goes for soft drinks - their high sugar and acid content are a no-no for tooth health. So steer clear of that soda and choose water instead.

Balancing Your Diet

Now, let's talk about what should be on your plate. A balanced diet high in vitamins and minerals and low in sugar can do wonders for maintaining your oral health. Remember, healthy teeth need calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A and D, so make sure you fill up on dairy, lean protein, fruits, and veggies.

We can confidently say that taking care of your diet while you're sick is an effective way to reduce white spots on your teeth. So the next time you're under the weather, remember; your diet matters for your body and your smile!

white marks on teeth when sick

Common Misconceptions About Teeth Whitening

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions surrounding teeth whitening treatments. We’re here to lift the veil and shine a light on the truths about tooth whitening while busting some myths in-between. 

Myth 1: Teeth Whitening Is Harmful To Teeth Enamel

Contrary to popular belief, teeth whitening treatments don’t harm your tooth enamel when used correctly. The trick lies in following instructions and not overdoing it. They’re designed to be gentle yet effective, ensuring you achieve your dream smile without harming your pearly whites or causing tooth decay.

Myth 2: Teeth Whitening Causes Extreme Tooth Sensitivity

While some people may experience temporary sensitivity after a whitening treatment, it's not the norm, and it definitely shouldn’t be "extreme". But if you naturally have sensitive teeth, it's best to consult with a dentist before starting a new whitening regime.

Myth 3: Natural Remedies Are Better Than Whitening Products

Many natural remedies, like baking soda or apple cider vinegar, are often touted as safer alternatives to whitening treatments. However, our findings show that they can be abrasive and damage tooth enamel over time. Plus, they're not as effective as specially formulated products like whitening toothpaste, for instance. 

white stuff at bottom of teeth

Our research indicates that using teeth whitening products correctly and moderately is scientifically designed to be safe and efficient. This makes them the superior choice for giving you a brighter smile without the risk.

The Reality: At-Home Teeth Whitening Products Are Safe And Effective

While professional whitening treatments have their place, don't underestimate the power of at-home teeth whitening solutions. After trying out these products, they’re mighty effective at dealing with issues like white spots on teeth when you’re sick and can’t pop in to see the dentist. 

Now that you know better, don't let misconceptions deter you. Safe, effective tooth whitening treatment with the very best over-the-counter products is very much a reality.

Preventing White Spots: Daily Habits to Adopt

So you’re wondering how to get rid of white spots on teeth at home. The good news is that prevention begins right in your bathroom. On this journey to a brighter smile, the first step is adopting a comprehensive oral care routine.

Essential Daily Practices

Start with thorough brushing and flossing - these are non-negotiable! Regular brushing ensures that you get rid of the white hard stuff on your teeth caused by food particles and plaque accumulation, preventing decay and the formation of those pesky white spots.

Adding Teeth Whitening Products To Your Routine

Stepping up from your basic dental care routine, there are specific products that can maintain your teeth's health and color and prevent white spots. That's where this revolutionary line of at-home tooth whitening products below comes in.

white spots on teeth while sick

  • Teeth Whitening Strips: Teeth whitening strips can easily be integrated into your daily routine; just stick them on your teeth for the instructed time, and voila! You're one step closer to a whiter, brighter smile.
  • Whitening Mouthwash: Rinse your mouth with this specially formulated whitening mouthwash. It helps fight bacteria and gives your pearly whites an extra boost of brightness.

Remember, consistency is key! Make these products part of your routine to ensure maximum effectiveness and keep white spots at bay, especially when you're feeling under the weather. 

Conclusion: The Road to a Brighter Smile

So, we've navigated through the maze of white spots on teeth, especially when you're under the weather. Be it due to dehydration, a reaction to certain medications, or simply an imbalance in your oral environment, these white spots can be a sign of mineral loss and tooth decay. 

Understanding and preventing white spots on affected teeth isn’t just about maintaining a picture-perfect smile; it's also about combating poor dental hygiene and promoting oral health. Remember, prevention is better than cure, and with our recommended habits and products, you're already ahead of the game!

Achieving your dream smile might seem like a challenge, especially when those uninvited white spots crash the party. But don't worry; SNOW is a reliable partner for your journey to a brighter smile.

Our range of at-home teeth whitening solutions is expertly formulated to tackle tooth discoloration while being gentle on your pearly whites.

So why wait? Let us help you take the first step together towards a healthier, brighter, and spot-free future for your teeth. 

Did you find the blog beneficial? If so, consider exploring our other guides.