Temporary white spots on front teeth

Question

Ok, so I noticed something weird and I was hoping someone could explain it...

On days when the weather is cold and I talk a lot outside, I notice that my mouth starts to feel dry, particularly my two front teeth

Later when I go look in the mirror, I see white spots on them, more towards the bottom and edges (usually not near the gum line)

Like today, I went kayaking with some friends, and it wasnt cold, but I was talking a lot, laughing, some wind, not a lot of liquid drinking, and I had that feeling again...and sure enough, I go home and see that same spotting....

However, they go away the next day and I think brushing my teeth after seeing the spots helps by making them feel not as dry

Can anyone explain this? I tried looking it up, but most ?s were talking about long term, but this happens to me once in awhile and for a short time...but it happens a lot, and is quite annoying

thanks!! I do choose best answer too :]

**I brush my teeth twice a day

floss every other (I know, I am trying to floss more often lol)

Answer 1

its a weakening in the enamel and you cold be brushing to hard and doing more damage,you need to see a dentist or you will loose them in the end

Answer 2

Most likely what you are experiencing is some dehydration of the tooth surface. This is most often happens with the use of whitening products and is, like you said, temporary. Cold air is very dry (hence static in when it is cold out) and that would explain why it happens in the cold or perhaps if you are talking alot outside. I am wondering if you are taking any medications because many have the side effect of a dry mouth (less saliva, less wet teeth). My other thought was whether or not you sleep with your mouth open at night (aka a "mouth breather") because you would be having a lack of saliva coating the teeth while you sleep as well. Mouth breathing is often seen with allergies or nasal blockages.

That would be my best estimation. I like to hear you are brushing often and trying to floss often. You might consider an over the counter fluoride rinse before bed as that will help remineralize the teeth. Mouth breathers and medications cause less saliva and usually an increased rate of cavities.

Hope that helps,

JAMRDH - a dental hygienist of 16 years