There’s a rather sneaky consequence of orthodontic treatment that can occur if you aren’t careful: White spots. And sometimes, they happen even when you’re very cautious! The great news is that we have a way of handling them at Johnston Orthodontics. Let’s discuss five things you should know about Icon White Spot Treatment and how it can help you.
What Are White Spots?
There are a few ways that white spots can show up. These are areas of demineralization in the tooth’s enamel, which appear lighter than the rest of the surface. This can range from being very minor to quite noticeable. Here’s how they happen:
- Plaque Buildup: During orthodontic treatment, brackets and wires can make it harder to clean teeth thoroughly, leading to plaque accumulation.
- Fluorosis: Excess fluoride during tooth development may result in white discoloration. It is very possible to have too much of a good thing when it comes to fluoride as an ingredient.
- Acidic Foods and Drinks: Consuming highly acidic foods and beverages like coffee can naturally erode enamel over time, leaving white spots behind.
- Decalcification: This is actually the initial stage of tooth decay, often a result of poor oral hygiene.
It’s important to note that white spots don’t always mean decay is happening—but they’re usually still unwanted on an aesthetic level.
What Is Icon White Spot Treatment?
Our office is one of the few in our region that offer this incredible form of treatment for our patients who have white spots. It’s minimally invasive and can reduce or completely eliminate these areas without drilling or removing healthy enamel. Here’s what the treatment looks like, and five major benefits of it:
- Resin Infiltration: We use a specially formulated resin that penetrates a tooth’s enamel to fill in the targeted white spot, thereby restoring its natural color. There’s also no recovery time necessary.
- No Drilling Required: Unlike traditional methods that involve removing enamel, Icon perfectly preserves the tooth’s structure.
- Quick and Painless: The procedure is completed in just one visit (in under an hour!) and involves no needles, numbing, or discomfort. This can be wonderful for our busiest patients and families on the go.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Your white spots are minimized or eliminated just like that—leaving your teeth looking even and restored!
- Suitable for Various Cases: Icon is effective for both orthodontic white spots and other discolorations caused by enamel irregularities.
Why Choose Us?
If you’re seeking this state-of-the-art treatment, we want to let you know exactly why Johnston Orthodontics is the best place to have it performed. The provider you choose absolutely makes a difference.
- Experienced Care: Dr. Johnston’s expertise guarantees precise and effective results when using these specialized tools. It means that you get the most flawless restoration possible.
- Comprehensive Solutions: Whether you’re dealing with white spots, alignment issues, or both, we provide a full range of orthodontic and cosmetic treatments in our office—meaning your Icon treatment might be just one step in a broader treatment plan designed just for you.
- Patient-Centered Approach: As a family-owned business here in Baytown, your comfort and satisfaction are always our top priorities. We approach every patient one-on-one and make sure all of their individual needs are met.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finally, let’s address three main questions we get at our office about Icon White Spot Treatment. We do our best to see that every patient in our practice has all the answers they need!
Q: Is Icon Treatment permanent? A: Yes, the results are long-lasting, but maintaining good oral hygiene is what helps prevent new white spots from forming. Attending regular dental check-ups and using fluoride toothpaste can further maintain your lovely results.
Q: Can Icon treat all types of white spots? A: Icon is effective for many cases. However, Dr. Johnston will evaluate your case to determine if it’s the most suitable solution for you and at what point it should occur in your orthodontic treatment.
Q: Is Icon Treatment safe for kids and teens? A: It definitely is! Since Icon is a gentle and non-invasive treatment, it’s very safe for patients of all ages. It’s an especially great option for our younger patients who may feel anxious about dental procedures.
A Cosmetic Cause
In many ways, aesthetic restorations like this one can be considered just as serious as functional ones, depending on the condition of your smile. Making sure you’re 100% happy with how your teeth look in the mirror is our top priority at Johnston Orthodontics—so don’t think this kind of treatment should be left by the wayside. Come and visit us in Baytown, TX soon!