Blog Post

What Should I Know About Hypocalcification?

Gerald M • Nov 29, 2017
hypocalcification

When teeth start developing white stains or spots, this is a sign of the teeth’s enamel suffering from hypocalcification. This type of discoloration occurs when high acidity within the mouth dissolves the enamel’s calcium and causes it to trickle out. Another reason why the teeth’s enamel could have low calcium levels is a genetic condition called amelogenesis imperfecta. To get the fullest idea of the causes, the complications, and the treatment options available for weakened tooth enamel, check out our guide below for further information.

Genetic Condition

To begin, amelogenesis imperfecta is a genetic condition affecting teeth and causing weakened enamel, due to the fact that it does not develop normally in adult or primary teeth. The enamel becomes soft and can easily wear away, or, at the very least, a thin layer of enamel might form on top of the teeth’s dentin layer. According to the National Organization for Rare Disorders, it is estimated that roughly one in 14,000 or 16,000 children in the United States have amelogenesis imperfecta.

Loss of Calcium

Acids brought on by certain acidic drinks or foods as well as mouth bacteria can break the enamel’s calcium down, a process that is also known as demineralization, which is the first stage on the way to cavities. As many children learn, calcium strengthens the teeth and their enamel. Wherever calcium is lost, the teeth become weaker, with the first symptoms of calcium loss being white stains or spots on the teeth due to the enamel structure changing. Hypocalcified teeth enamel is chalkier and more porous compared to healthy enamel. If left untreated, calcium loss will continue, the enamel will break down completely, and cavities will appear.

Treatments for Hypocalcification

Finding out what’s causing hypocalcification offers the best guide for proper treatment. If calcium loss was caused by high acidity, the enamel could react to remineralization via creams, pastes, or even fluoride treatments, thereby preventing more cavity development and calcium loss. Also, patients can strengthen enamel through brushing their teeth with toothpaste that can help replenish their natural calcium—provided the demineralization has not progressed that far.

For individuals with amelogenesis imperfecta, hypocalcification, unfortunately, has no cure, but dentists may be able to provide patients with artificial replacements for weakened enamel. Specialized dentures or full crown restorations for defective teeth cover and thereby protect dentin, thus preventing tooth decay and relieving sensitivity that patients suffering from this condition usually experience.

The teeth’s enamel provides them with the best possible protection, and lost calcium is an indication of enamel weakening. If your dentist can diagnose the problem early enough, they can stop the problem from turning into something much more serious. If patients notice white stains or spots on their teeth, they should make a dentist appointment and have the professional check out the problem, treat it, and provide advice for preventing a reoccurrence.

Did you know there is a New Hampshire discount dental plan for individuals , families, and small business owners that can save you as much as 20 percent off your bills? For more information about the plan, please click here.

Copyright: seoterra / 123RF Stock Photo

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