ICON white-spot treatment
Have you noticed white spots or white lines on your teeth? For suitable white spots, ICON® resin infiltration can make them less noticeable without drilling, while keeping your natural tooth structure.
What is ICON?
ICON resin infiltration is a minimally invasive treatment for selected white spots and certain enamel defects. A very fluid resin flows into the microscopic pores of the affected enamel. Because the resin handles light much like natural enamel does, it can reduce the contrast between the white area and the rest of the tooth.
Our goal is to improve how the tooth looks while keeping as much natural tooth as possible.
Why do teeth develop white spots?
- After braces
- Plaque building up around brackets can weaken the enamel underneath.
- Developmental enamel defects
- Some teeth form with areas of softer or thinner enamel.
- Early enamel decay
- Mineral loss just under the surface can look chalky white.
- Other enamel changes
- Fluorosis, or an injury or infection affecting a baby tooth while the adult tooth was forming, can also leave white areas.
Not every white spot should be treated with ICON. White areas have many different causes. Your dentist will tell you whether ICON, monitoring, remineralizing treatment, microabrasion, bonding or another option is best for you.
Is ICON right for you?
ICON may be considered if you have a suitable white spot or enamel defect and want a conservative cosmetic option, for example:
- White spots that appeared after braces
- Certain developmental enamel defects
- Visible white areas on front teeth that bother you
- You'd like a minimally invasive option before considering bonding or veneers
How ICON treatment works
- PrepareThe teeth are cleaned and carefully isolated.
- ConditionThe surface is treated to open access to the porous enamel. Sometimes this step is repeated.
- Dry and checkThe tooth is dried so the dentist can assess the spot and prepare it for the resin.
- InfiltrateThe ICON resin is applied and soaks into the enamel.
- CureExcess material is removed and the resin is hardened with a curing light.
- Finish and polishThe surface is finished and polished smooth.
What to expect
- Usually one appointment, often about 45 to 60 minutes depending on the case.
- Usually no freezing, because no drilling is needed.
- A visible improvement is common for suitable spots, but complete disappearance can't be guaranteed.
- The gum may look pale for a short time when spots are close to the gumline.
What ICON can and can't do
ICON can
- Reduce how visible many suitable white spots are
- Offer a conservative option that preserves natural tooth structure
- Help seal porous enamel in early decay, in suitable cases
ICON can't
- Guarantee that every white spot will disappear completely
- Treat every type of tooth discolouration
- Replace good brushing, fluoride, a healthy diet or regular dental visits
Looking after your teeth
Keep brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth, and keep sugary snacks and drinks to mealtimes. Like any tooth surface, treated areas can pick up stains over time from coffee, tea or red wine.
Common questions
Does ICON hurt?
There is no drilling, so freezing usually isn't needed. Tell us if anything feels uncomfortable during the visit.
Will the white spots disappear completely?
Often they become much less noticeable, but how much they fade varies from tooth to tooth. We'll examine the spots and tell you what to expect.
Can children and teens have ICON?
It's often used for white spots after braces in teens. We'll check whether your child's spots are suitable.
Is ICON covered by insurance?
It's usually considered cosmetic, so coverage varies. We can help you check your plan.
Dr. Anahita Azadi Boroujeni, DDS, Dr. Cynthia Simon, DMD, and Dr. Kyra de Gouw, DMD, are general dentists registered with the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario. This page is general information. Your treatment is planned after an examination.