White Spot Treatment in Knoxville, TN

Do you have white spots on your teeth? These spots, or lesions, often occur due to poor oral hygiene, discoloration from orthodontic treatment, enamel bruising, fluorosis, demineralization, or trauma.

woman in a white shirt

Previously, the only way to treat white spot lesions (WSLs) involved injections, drilling, and porcelain or resin restorations. However, a more accessible alternative is available! At Dental Co. of Knoxville, Dr. Holt is pleased to offer Icon treatment to erase white spots and lesions from teeth.

What Causes White Spot Lesions?

White spot lesions often occur due to an imbalance of mineralization and remineralization on the teeth. This is when some portions of the enamel have a higher concentration of minerals, leading to uneven coloration. The lesions are where minerals can't access deeper parts of the enamel. 

What Is Icon White Spot Treatment?

Icon treatment, also called Icon resin infiltration, is a painless, innovative way to remove white spots without needing an invasive dental procedure. 

Here's how Icon corrects WSLs and enamel bruising:

Dr. Holt uses micro-abrasion to expose the tooth's tubules. He then applies an etching material to the tooth several times, ensuring that the color-correcting resin properly soaks into the tooth and bonds with the tooth's structure. 

Dr. Holt then removes excess resin and uses a special light to harden it for additional strength. Finally, he polishes your teeth to complete your new look. After the treatment, you will have a significantly more uniform appearance. From start to finish, Icon treatment may last an hour.  

Advantages of Icon Treatment 

Icon treatment has outstanding benefits, such as:

  • It's painless, and there aren't any needles involved. 
  • It saves healthy tooth structure. 
  • It is suitable and safe for children. 
  • It is less expensive than other treatments like veneers. 
  • The results usually last a few years before requiring a touchup from your dentist. 

Untreated WSLs usually look worse after traditional teeth whitening treatments. On the other hand, Icon treatment allows you to take advantage of whitening treatments. 

3 Ways You Can Prevent White Spot Lesions 

The best way to treat white spot lesions is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Here are some ways to avoid WSLs from developing on teeth:

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene 

Good oral hygiene can help prevent white tooth spots by removing excess plaque. Brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque while strengthening enamel. You can also use fluoridated mouthwashes to help minimize white spots. 

2. Listen to Your Dentist woman sitting in a dental chair

White spot lesions can occur from wearing traditional metal braces and failing to practice consistent and thorough oral hygiene. Follow your dentist's instructions to decrease your risk of developing white spots or mottling. Another way to prevent white spots is opting for Invisalign clear aligners to correct teeth without metal brackets and wires. During Invisalign treatment, you can brush, floss, and receive cosmetic dentistry to maintain a white, beautiful smile. 

3. Reduce Your Sugar Consumption

Dental plaque contains bacteria that contribute to enamel demineralization. Plaque and bacteria feed on sugar as their primary food source. Consuming large amounts of sugar thus increases the production of plaque and bacteria, which can cause white spot lesions. Reducing your sugar intake can help prevent these lesions from developing.   

Remove White Spots from Your Teeth with Icon Treatment 

Do you need Icon treatment for white spot lesions in Knoxville? Dr. Holt can remove these spots and help you improve your smile's appearance. Please get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Holt at Dental Co. of Knoxville.