Decalcification occurs when calcium and phosphorous minerals are removed from the tooth surface. These minerals are a normal part of your tooth's composition but can be depleted or lost due to plaque accumulation.

What is decalcified enamel?

What is enamel decalcification? This is what happens to tooth enamel when the tooth is in contact with too much acid from soda pop or acid produced by bacteria in dental plaque. Calcium and other minerals are removed from the enamel and the natural color of the tooth begins to change, usually to an opaque white.

Can teeth be decalcified?

Decalcification of the teeth is essentially the loss of calcium, which can be a problem if this leads to decay. Usually appearing as white marks on the surface of teeth, decalcification in older children and adults can often be the result of plaque sticking to the tooth over a prolonged period of time.