Enamel defects are disturbances in the quality and /or quantity of enamel. Enamel is one of the four components that make up a tooth. It covers the visible part of the tooth called the crown. There are a multitude of factors that can lead to the formation of enamel defects in teeth. These include genetic factors, and environmental factors such as trauma, childhood illness, long term antibiotic use, coeliac disease, and kidney disease.  

What do they look like? 

The enamel defects may be localised to one tooth or may affect multiple teeth. Teeth with enamel defects may have pits, tiny groves, depressions, and white spots or yellowish-brown stains. Defects may be localised to a small area of a tooth(demarcated) or can affect a lot of the tooth surface (diffuse). Teeth affected by enamel defects may experience more sensitivity to temperatures and sugary foods. The colour and size of the tooth may also be affected. Teeth that have enamel defects are more susceptible to tooth decay, erosion, and premature tooth wear.  

Treatment of Enamel Defects 

Enamel defects cannot be prevented as they form when the tooth is developing in utero. However, there are things that you can do to reduce the risk of dental disease that may arise as a result of enamel defects. These include: 

Regular dental visits: This allows the dentist to identify teeth that are affected by enamel defects so that tailored preventative strategies for you can be put in place. If the tooth is symptomatic or has dental decay, the dentist will be able to advise you of the most appropriate treatment. This may involve placement of composite(white) fillings, bonding, or placement of a crown. 

Oral Hygiene: Tooth decay and gum disease can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene. This involves brushing twice a day for 2-3 minutes with a toothpaste that contains fluoride. This helps to prevent cavities and will strengthen the tooth surface. It is also important to clean in between your teeth. There are lots of cleaning aides available to help with this such as dental floss, interdental brushes, and water flossers. Maintaining good oral hygiene is particularly important in respect to enamel defects as the natural protective cover of the tooth (the enamel) may be compromised.  

Diet: Oral diseases like tooth decay require sugar to progress. By reducing the amount and frequency of sugar in your diet, you can reduce the risk of tooth decay.  

Aesthetics: Sometimes the colour, shape and size of a tooth with enamel defects may be different to other teeth. There are multiple options available to improve the appearance of teeth, so that you can smile confidently. Your dentist will best advise you on the options available.