If the human body is a temple, then the human brain is intent on finding every imperfection in its construction.

We have developed, as a species, to be very self-critical, always looking to improve our appearance and the way that others perceive us. It isn’t a flaw, but rather part of human nature. Along with this comes a longing for the perfect smile.

Ill placed, misshaped, stained, decayed, or otherwise imperfect teeth prevent us from achieving that goal and this can lead to major frustration. Among the many complaints heard by dentists and orthodontists each year is that of white marks on the teeth.

White ‘stains’ on the teeth can be a result of many different causes. They can present at birth, form in adulthood, or show up at any point in between and the timing of their appearance can help a dental professional a great deal in narrowing down the list of potential causes.

Those white spots formed early in life are often a sign of improper enamel formation. This can be a result of Enamel Hypoplasia or Amelogenesis Imperfecta. Both of these are conditions that happen during the formation of the teeth. The first happens only in the period known as enamel matrix formation and is simply an inconsistent growth of enamel over the tooth surface, while the second can occur at any of the three stages of enamel formation and often results in a look referred to as ‘snow-capped teeth.’

When people come to notice these white spots later in life, it is likely a cause other than those mentioned above. However, the list of potential causes is not necessarily a short one.

It could be fluorosis, which is a condition brought on by too much fluoride intake. This substance is found in most toothpastes and mouthwashes, as well as in many forms of drinking water. In small doses it actually helps to preserve the health and appearance of natural teeth. However, in excess – more than one parts per million in drinking water, for instance – it can result in a condition that poorly affects the teeth and can ultimately affect the skeletal structure as well.

Dental fluorosis results in white staining on the teeth (hypomineralization). If the fluoride intake is not controlled, this condition can become skeletal fluorosis, which is a very serious condition. The remedy for dental fluorosis, thankfully, is rather obvious. The person should simply limit fluoride intake. Have your water tested to ensure that the levels remain at or below one part per million.

New cavities can also cause a white staining on the teeth. The tooth decay results initially in a chalky-white opacity of the enamel. The decay begins to break this ultra-tough surface down, first leading to an increased permeability, which makes it easier for further bacteria to eat away at that and under-layers of the tooth. If this is the cause of the staining, action can be taken by the dentist to fill the existing cavity with a substance made to match the natural color of the teeth.

Before the decay sets in, there is the matter of tooth plaque to address. This substance, which is washed away with regular and thorough brushing can build up on the teeth if not dealt with properly. When this occurs it can be easily mistake as staining of the teeth.

When none of these explanations fit, then it is time to consider other daily habits, which might lead to the breakdown of enamel, resulting in staining. Brushing too hard and drinking carbonated beverages in excess, for instance, can result in the sudden appearance of white stains.