A combined chemo-mechanical approach for aesthetic management of superficial enamel defects

Abstract

Objective The aim of this article is to describe an easy technique for managing small superfi cial defects in light to medium fl uorosis. Method and materials The proposed technique is based on a selective abrasion of the superfi cial enamel and a recreation of the superfi cial macro and micro morphology. The aesthetic appearance can be enhanced by power or home bleaching. Results The presented technique can manage enamel defects which are confi ned in the most external enamel surface with satisfying aesthetic results. Conclusions This conservative approach may be considered an interesting alternative to more invasive prosthetic techniques based on composite reconstructions or ceramic veneers, minimising invasivity, chairside time and costs for patients.

Microabrasion in tooth enamel discoloration defects: three cases with long-term follow-ups

“…It is appropriate to consider that when facing a white stain with a hard texture, not so evident on the enamel surface, instead of applying microabrasion, it can be camouflage by performing dental bleaching with carbamide or hydrogen peroxide, which act in the dentin tissue, making it lighter 2 (Figure 7). It is important to note that after performing dental bleaching on teeth with white stains, they seem more evident after each session because of the dehydration, but after a couple of days they will be rehydrated by the saliva and the stains will be masked.…”

“…Although aesthetic demands for perfect smiles are increasing, economic problems have also influenced the patients' decisions among the treatment options. More conservative approaches based on cheaper and less time-consuming treatments such as bleaching, micro-abrasive treatments and composite resin restorations are widely used 2 .…”

Esthetic Rehabilitation of Teeth with Dental Fluorosis

“…Teeth with moderate dental fluorosis are satisfactorily managed with minimally invasive techniques, like microabrasion and bleaching. 8 Macroabrasion is a procedure done to remove isolated surface defects and stains. When it is done along with microabrasion, it removes localized grooves, defects and superficial tooth enamel discolorations to give a lighter shade with a smoother finish.…”

Minimally Invasive Treatment for Esthetic Management of Severe Dental Fluorosis: A Case Report

“…This procedure eliminated deeper stains in the enamel and minimized the clinical chair time. 6,8 It has been postulated that even 25% to 33% enamel reduction would probably be unrecognizable and clinically acceptable. 9 Therefore, well-controlled mega-abrasion could be considered as an acceptable approach in severe cases of DF without an unnecessary sacrifice of hard dental tissue.…”

“…4 Because of its important role in the prevention and control of dental caries, fluoride has also been added to milk and salt in recent decades. 5,6 As a result, clinicians are facing an increasing number of patients with DF. 6 DF affects the color and/or structure of enamel, which leads to an unpleasant esthetic appearance.…”