What are white spot lesions?

• A. Non-cavitated carious lesions in enamel
• B. Cavitated lesions in dentin
• C. Root caries on exposed roots
• D. Fluorosis spots on enamel

Answer: (A)

White spot lesions are the earliest stage of dental caries, representing subsurface demineralization of enamel with an still-intact surface. The mineral loss beneath the surface creates tiny pores, scattering light and giving a chalky, opaque white appearance, but there is no actual cavitation yet. Because the surface enamel remains non‑broken, this is considered a non-cavitated lesion in enamel and is typically reversible with remineralization strategies like fluoride exposure, good plaque control, and reduced fermentable sugar intake. They aren’t cavitated lesions involving dentin, nor root caries on exposed roots, and they aren’t fluorosis spots, which are developmental enamel changes from excess fluoride rather than active caries.