White spots are porous areas in the enamel. They usually form in one of three ways: as demineralisation, often after fixed braces, as fluorosis from too much fluoride in childhood, or through a disturbance in enamel formation, which includes so-called chalky teeth. Because the spot refracts light differently from healthy enamel, it looks lighter. Many of these spots can be blended in without any reshaping.
Updated: 9 November 2026
Why a spot looks white
Healthy enamel is dense and lets light through evenly. In a porous area there are tiny cavities. Light is scattered there, and the spot appears milky white. The tooth is not dirty at that spot, and brushing does not change the colour.
Demineralisation, for example after braces
Around the brackets of fixed braces, plaque easily stays behind. The acids produced by bacteria dissolve minerals from the enamel, and once the braces come off, white areas become visible. Demineralisation is an early form of decay. Fresh spots can partly recover with fluoride and good care.
Fluorosis: too much fluoride while the teeth were developing
Fluoride protects against decay; the amount is what matters. If a child takes in more than they need over a longer period, for example by swallowing toothpaste or receiving tablets in addition to fluoridated salt, the enamel of the permanent teeth can become mottled. Typical are white flecks or streaks, often evenly across several teeth. This is primarily a question of appearance.
Disturbed enamel formation and chalky teeth
Sometimes the enamel does not form completely while the teeth are developing. With so-called chalky teeth, molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) in medical terms, the first permanent molars and the incisors are usually affected. The spots are white to yellowish-brown, and often it is not only about appearance but about sensitive teeth. The causes are not yet fully understood. A single spot on one tooth can also go back to an accident involving the baby tooth.
Why spots stand out more after whitening
Whitening briefly draws moisture out of the tooth, and porous areas stand out more clearly. After a few days this evens out again. If you have spots and would like to whiten, plan both together.
What can be done
- Resin infiltration with Icon: a highly fluid resin fills the porous area from within. Light is refracted again as in healthy enamel, and the spot blends in with the tooth colour. In one session, usually without anaesthetic and without reshaping.
- For chalky teeth: we ease the sensitivity with an infiltration (Icon) and with sealants. That makes brushing and chewing more comfortable again.
- Combination: for deep or brownish discolouration, we combine infiltration, where it makes sense, with whitening or a fine composite build-up.
- An honest assessment: whether a spot is no longer visible afterwards or clearly softened depends on the cause and depth. We show you that in advance.
