What are white or discoloured spots on teeth?  

White spots appear as lighter patches on the enamel because of a lack of mineral content, which has been lost from the tooth surface, a process known as decalcification or demineralisation. 

What causes white spots on teeth? 

Fluorosis: This occurs when there is a very high intake of fluoride while adult teeth are developing. Fluoride is helpful in the right amount as it strengthens enamel and helps prevent decay. However, if a child gets more fluoride than needed (for example, swallowing toothpaste regularly or drinking water with high fluoride levels), it can interfere with enamel formation. 

• Decalcification/Demineralisation: is when minerals such as calcium and phosphate are lost from the enamel because of acids in the mouth. When enamel loses minerals, it becomes weaker, more porous, and lighter in colour, which is why you see white spots. 

• Molar Incisal Hypoplasia (MIH): This is a type of enamel deficiency that usually occurs in children under the age of 10. MIH can make teeth more prone to sensitivity and decay and may also appear as white spots. 

• Historic trauma: Trauma experienced in infancy can cause white spots to form on teeth as they develop inside the gums. These white spots can be thought of as a type of bruise affecting the enamel and structure of the teeth. 

Correcting discoloured spots on my teeth? 

Infiltration treatment with Icon Vestibular: The ICON tooth procedure (produced by the market leading DMG Group in Germany) is a minimally invasive treatment for discoloured patches on teeth. It works by infiltrating the porous enamel with a special resin, which fills the discoloured patches and makes them blend seamlessly with the rest of the tooth. 

• Minimally invasive: It treats discoloured patches without removing healthy tooth structure. It is a gentle procedure that does not require injections. 
• Treats early decay: It is used for non-cavitated lesions, which are common after braces or due to poor oral hygiene.
• Preserves tooth structure: It saves as much healthy enamel as possible. 
• Corrects aesthetics: It improves the appearance of the teeth by masking the discoloured patches. 

What Are the Steps Involved in the Treatment?

1. Consultation and Diagnosis: Assessment of the lesion and determination of suitability for ICON. 
2. Home whitening treatment: is carried before ICON 
3. Preparation of the Tooth: Cleaning, isolation, and application of an acid solution to prepare the enamel. 
4. Application of Resin: Application of the infiltration resin into the lesion in multiple layers. 
5. Curing: Each layer of resin will be hardened using a special light. 
6. Final Polishing: The treated area will be polished to blend seamlessly with surrounding tooth enamel. 

Post-Treatment Care and Advice

• Avoid staining substances: For the first 24-48 hours after the procedure, avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking to prevent staining the treated area. 
• Good oral hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth as usual but avoid using abrasive toothpaste on the treated area. 
• Sensitivity management: If you experience sensitivity, use toothpaste for sensitive teeth, and avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks.
• Follow-up: It’s recommended to have a follow-up visit within 6-12 months to evaluate the treatment’s success and ensure the lesion has not progressed. 

Can I whiten my teeth after resin infiltration? 

Typically, whitening treatment is carried before ICON, but yes, you can whiten your teeth after undergoing ICON resin infiltration to maintain your shade. However, it’s advisable to wait for a certain period after the procedure before starting any whitening treatments. Consult with your dentist for specific recommendations.