Dentists are constantly looking for new and better ways to help their patients. Icon resin infiltration allows us to treat post-orthodontic white spot lesions in a minimally invasive manner, making it the perfect alternative to composite veneer restorations.

What is Icon?

Icon resin infiltration was first described 40 years ago. The optical properties of it are similar to those of natural enamel, so it matches the natural shade of the tooth.

Icon resin infiltration is a minimally invasive restorative treatment for post-ortho white-spot lesions (WSLs) and certain congenital hypo-calcified enamel lesions (“hypo” spots). These “spots” occur from a cyclical imbalance between demineralization and remineralization of the enamel, usually caused by poor hygiene practices. Over time, the associated plaque, bacteria and acids build up and lead to the lesions because the remineralization at the outer surface of the tooth decreases the access of calcium and other ions to deeper portions of the enamel.

The reason behind their white color is because there is a scattering of light at the subsurface of the demineralized enamel. Hypo spots, or enamel bruising, are congenital enamel defects often caused by trauma or infection involving the primary teeth.

The Procedure

The treatment for Icon resin infiltration is minimally invasive and can be completed in one visit. There are no shots or numbing because it is not painful. A plain pumice is used to clean the teeth by etching the lesions. The etching removes the outer remineralized layer of enamel that had previously been blocking calcium and other ions from entering the tooth.

After they etch the tooth, they put a finishing bur on any surfaces that do not indicate an improved appearance. Then, a drying agent (ethanol) is applied. Once the tooth is dry, then begins the application of the resin infiltrant. The material soaks in for three minutes to allow for capillary action. The excess material is removed with cotton rolls, micro-brushes and floss. The material is lightly cured, and more material is added for one minute. Again, the excess is removed and cured. Once all of this is complete, the tooth is finished with polishing discs or burs. This entire process takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete.

Overall

This treatment is much less invasive and expensive than other alternatives such as fillings or veneers. It can also be done sooner than other cosmetic options like veneers where you have to wait until growth is complete. If left untreated, hypo spots often look worse after bleaching. When they are treated with Icon, hypo spots will whiten similarly to the natural tooth enamel.

Even if these lesions are treated, in some small cases the spot does not disappear completely. The worst case scenario would be there is no change in appearance. In most cases, it provides a significant cosmetic improvement in one simple, painless visit. Contact one of our offices today to learn more.

There are many different reasons for a pediatric dentist to recommend dental crowns for baby teeth. Cavities can be very problematic if left untreated in a baby tooth. Baby teeth often aren’t fully developed and can break easily when hit or bumped when not treated with a crown or filling. Catching these problems early can promote healthy development of baby teeth and prevent major issues later on.

What are Crowns?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped covering cemented to the tooth. It’s purpose is to restore the tooth to its natural shape and function. Crowns are often recommended by pediatric dentists when it is necessary to repair and restore a baby tooth that has a large cavity or cavities, broken tooth, or a baby tooth that has not developed properly.

Teeth that are severely decayed or fractured cannot be repaired by filling because of the risk of the filling falling out, breaking or wearing out. This would cause additional future dental procedures. Crowns are much more durable than fillings and usually last until the baby tooth falls out.

Repairing and restoring baby teeth is very important. Most children begin to lose a few baby teeth by age six, but they won’t lose their molars until age 12 or 13. This is why it is essential to keep those teeth healthy until they fall out naturally. When they fall out healthy and naturally, it helps the permanent teeth grow into their proper position which reduces the chances that they will need extensive orthodontic treatment later. Decay can spread rapidly between teeth once it starts because the enamel of baby teeth is thinner than permanent teeth. Crowns are used to help save the decayed tooth, but they are also able to prevent the spread of decay and infection to other areas of the mouth or body.

The Procedure

The process of placing a crown is fairly simple. First, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth that needs to be restored. Then, they will put a dental dam in place and remove any decay that is in the tooth. Lastly, they shape the tooth to fit the crown.

Crowns for children can be placed in a single procedure, whereas adult crowns often require several visits to the dentist.

Once the procedure is done, it is normal for your child to experience some discomfort caused by irritation of the tooth’s soft tissue around the tooth for up to 24 hours. Your child may take over the counter medicines such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help with the discomfort. If your child experiences pain for longer than 24 hours, it is important to contact your dentist. You should not allow your child to eat until the numbness has completely worn off to prevent accidental bites of the lip or cheek.

To learn more about whether dental crowns are right for your child, contact one of our two offices to schedule a consultation.