What are white spots and do braces cause them? White spots on teeth are areas of decalcification or demineralization of the tooth structure. If plaque is not cleaned off of the teeth, the acid from the plaque starts to take away the mineral from the tooth, leaving a softer, chalkier white area behind. These spots are like scars on the teeth because they do not brush away. White spots can occur with or without braces. Braces do not cause white spots. However, people who are me