Where Families in Green Lake Come to Smile
White Spot Removal in Seattle, WA
White spots on your teeth aren’t just a cosmetic quirk. These chalky patches signal that your enamel has lost minerals, creating areas of decalcification that can make you self-conscious about your smile. Maybe they appeared after your braces came off, or perhaps you’ve had them since childhood. Either way, modern dentistry has come a long way in treating these stubborn spots.
At Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer Seattle patients a range of white spot removal treatments that actually work. Dr. Cherryl Ellison takes time to understand what caused your white spots and recommends solutions that match your goals, whether that’s gentle remineralization or a complete cosmetic transformation.
What Causes White Spots on Teeth?
White spots can develop for several reasons, and identifying the cause helps us choose the right treatment. Poor oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment is one of the most common culprits. When brackets and wires make it harder to brush thoroughly, plaque builds up and leaches minerals from the enamel, leaving behind those telltale white marks.
Excessive fluoride exposure during childhood can also create white spots, a condition called fluorosis. While fluoride strengthens teeth, too much of it during tooth development can cause discoloration. Research shows that roughly 23% of Americans aged 6 to 49 have some degree of dental fluorosis, though most cases are mild.
Certain medications, particularly if taken during childhood, may affect enamel formation and lead to spotting. Additionally, early tooth decay appears as white spots before progressing to darker cavities. Even things like dry mouth or acidic foods can contribute to demineralization over time.
Professional White Spot Treatment Options
The right treatment depends on how deep the spots go and what you’re hoping to achieve. We offer several proven options that can restore your smile:
- Remineralization therapy uses fluoride treatments and prescription-strength products to help rebuild lost minerals and blend the spots with the surrounding enamel. It takes patience, but many patients see noticeable improvement without more invasive procedures.
- Microabrasion works well for spots that sit on the enamel surface. We gently remove a thin layer of enamel to smooth away discoloration, then polish your teeth to a natural shine.
- Cosmetic bonding offers a fast solution for stubborn spots. We apply tooth-colored resin directly to the affected areas, sculpting and shaping it to match your natural teeth. The results are immediate and blend seamlessly with your smile.
- Porcelain veneers provide the most dramatic transformation for extensive spotting or for addressing multiple cosmetic concerns at once. These thin shells cover the front of your teeth, creating a flawless appearance that lasts for years.
- Professional teeth whitening can help in some cases by lightening the surrounding tooth structure to minimize contrast, though it won’t remove the spots themselves.
Cosmetic bonding, porcelain veneers, and teeth whitening are all available at our practice to help you achieve your best smile.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your first step is a thorough exam at our Green Lake office. We’ll assess your white spots, discuss the causes, and review your treatment options. Some treatments, like remineralization, happen gradually over several weeks or months with at-home care and periodic check-ins. Others, like bonding or veneers, can transform your smile in just one or two visits.
During bonding, we prepare the tooth surface, apply the composite resin, shape it to match your natural contours, and cure it with a special light. The process is comfortable and typically doesn’t require anesthesia. For veneers, we take impressions, prepare your teeth by removing a small amount of enamel, and place temporary veneers while your custom ones are crafted. At your second visit, we bond the permanent veneers in place.
Most treatments involve minimal discomfort. You may experience slight sensitivity afterward, but this usually fades quickly. We’ll give you specific care instructions to protect your results and keep your smile looking its best.
Preventing White Spots From Forming
Prevention beats treatment every time. If you or your child wears braces, meticulous oral hygiene becomes even more critical. Brush after every meal, use a fluoride mouthwash, and don’t skip regular dental cleanings. We can also apply fluoride varnish to vulnerable areas during orthodontic treatment to strengthen enamel and ward off demineralization.
Watch your diet too. Acidic and sugary foods create the perfect environment for enamel breakdown. Drink water after meals to rinse away acids and sugars, and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing if you’ve consumed something acidic. Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense system, so stay hydrated and consider sugar-free gum to keep saliva flowing.
White Spot Removal at Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Ellison brings both technical skill and genuine care to every treatment. Originally from Indiana, she earned her degrees from Indiana University before practicing in Vermont and eventually settling in the Pacific Northwest. She’s passionate about making dental care comfortable and enjoyable for the whole family, whether you need preventive services or cosmetic work. Her continued training through the Spear and Seattle Study Clubs keeps her up to date on the latest techniques, so you benefit from proven, effective treatments.
We understand that white spots can affect your confidence, and we’re here to help you feel great about your smile again. With flexible financing through Cherry and an in-house membership plan starting at $36 per month for preventive care, quality dental treatment is more accessible than you might think. We also work with most major insurance providers, including Delta Dental, Cigna, Premera Blue Cross, and more. Schedule your consultation today to explore your white spot removal options at our Green Lake office.
Meet the Doctor
Dr. Cherryl Ellison – Dental Fillings In Green Lake
With over six years of experience and a reputation for clarity and kindness, Dr. Cherryl Ellison delivers dental fillings in Green Lake that feel calm, transparent, and comfortable. She’s known for explaining procedures in plain terms, using modern techniques, and treating each patient like a person—not a chart. From first-time patients to longtime regulars, she makes dental visits feel approachable and personalized.
Book Your Dental Filling Appointment Today
Don’t wait for a small issue to become a big problem. Whether you’re due for a checkup or already know something needs attention, we’re here to help—with no pressure and no surprises.