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Feb 5, 2013|Patient Information, Treatment

White Spots Reduction (MI Paste Remineralization Therapy)

White spots on the teeth are early signs of demineralization (mineral loss), which may or may not lead to the development of a dental cavity. The tooth surface becomes porous and rough.

If demineralization overcomes the rate of remineralization (mineral gain), the surface of the white spot lesion breaks down, producing dental caries (decay).

  • Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment are predisposed to the development of white spot lesions and are associated with poor oral hygiene. They often have trouble properly brushing their teeth and the result is a build-up of plaque.
  • Studies report that as many as 37% to 97% of patients with fixed orthodontic appliances have at least one new white spot lesion after therapy. Younger patients tend to have more white spot lesions than older ones, possibly because the young are less concerned about oral hygiene than their older counterparts.
  • White spot lesions can form within 1 month of the start of orthodontic treatment because of the accumulation of plaque around brackets and bands increases, which causes enamel demineralization.
  • White spots can appear in connection with a condition called fluorosis, which is the result of having an excessive intake of fluoride. People who live in areas where drinking water contains a high fluoride level often encounter this problem.
  • Sometimes these spots are caused by nutrition or genetics.
  • Some children also develop white spots on their teeth as they are developing.
White Spot Lesions Can Cause Severe Esthetic Problems.
How to Treat White Spots on Your Teeth?

Certainly, there are invasive methods such as composite filling material, bonding and porcelain veneer placement, depending on the severity of the problem.

Dr. Kakos and his staff provide minimally invasive treatments that maintain a conservative approach to patients.

We have been very successful in eliminating white spot lesions using a product called “MI Paste” that generally supports the process of remineralization – ( ions replacement that was dissolved by demineralization).

MI Paste is a sugar-free crème containing RECALDENT ( CPP – ACP) Technology. Recaldent combines calcium and phosphate and a natural milk protein that promotes REMINERALIZATION by binding to dental plaque. MI Paste promotes the uptake of fluoride ions that are also in the oral environment.

Treatment involves several short visits (not longer than 30 min), each a week apart. The number of appointments may differ and depends on the severity of the problem.

On the etched tooth surface, we apply a layer of MI Paste using a polishing cup. The patient is advised not to eat or drink for 30 minutes after treatment, which maximizes the uptake of the calcium and phosphate into the dental tubules.

Patients are instructed to apply MI Paste in a custom tray, two times daily for a minimum of 5 minutes.

Recaldent is not to be used on patients allergic to milk protein or benzoate preservatives.

Remineralization therapy is a fairly simple and inexpensive way to promote tooth structure preservation.

If you notice white spot lesions on your teeth, call our office at 847-758-0100 to schedule a consultation appointment and to re-evaluate the problem.

Remember the white spots on your teeth may be reversible in a very conservative way with the use of MI Paste and fluoride treatments.

Source: “Reduce White Spot Lesions”, Ahmed Ghoneima, Dimensions of DH- July 2012

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