Minimalistic Intervention of White Spot Lesions and Dental Fluorosis with Resin Infiltration Technique- A Report of Two Cases

Abstract

The advances in scientific developments in dentistry have led to the emergence of innovative technologies for early diagnosis, prevention, interception, and therapeutic strategies for the preservation of tooth structure loss due to carious destruction or tooth decay arresting the carious lesions in order to preserve the tooth structure loss. Minimal intervention techniques to replace, repair, and remove as little tissue as possible is gaining significant importance over traditional techniques, as the emphasis is given on the preservation of the original tooth structure. White spot lesions are a form of enamel demineralisation which usually occurs due to dental fluorosis or postorthodontic treatment, compromising the aesthetics and self-esteem of the patient. The resin infiltration technique is a reliable treatment option advocated for the treatment of white spot lesions and non cavitated carious lesions. It is a microinvasive intervention performed without drilling or sacrificing the healthy tooth structure aiming at reinforcing the demineralised enamel by filling with visible light curing resin. The rationale for the use of resin infiltration is to allow the light-activated resin to permeate into the enamel porosities by virtue of capillary action, into the treated surface of the tooth. The infiltrated resin occludes the enamel microporosities and prevents the lesion progression further as it blocks the various pathways of ingress created by the acid penetration and dissolved materials in the enamel matrix. The first case presentation highlights the successful management of white spots visible in the maxillary anterior region of a female patient of age 25 years. The second case represents the use of the resin infiltration technique to treat and eliminate yellow-brownish stains in the maxillary anterior teeth of a female patient of age 23 years. Both the patients expressed concerns about the non uniform colour and appearance of their teeth and wanted solutions to rectify the same, without any drilling or removal of the tooth surface. This article highlights the concept of resin infiltration as a minimally invasive treatment option for the management of white spot lesions as a viable solution to suit patient specific needs.