ICON® THERAPY – A SOLUTION FOR WHITE SPOTS, WITHOUT DRILLING OR TOOTH STRUCTURE LOSS
ICON® therapy (also known as ICON® resin infiltration) is a modern, minimally invasive dental procedure primarily used for the aesthetic and preventive treatment of white spots on the tooth surface and certain early-stage cavities. One of the greatest advantages of this treatment is that it can help treat problem areas without drilling or pain—especially when the condition is still in its early stages.
WHEN IS ICON® TREATMENT RECOMMENDED?
• For white spots that appear after orthodontic treatment, especially lesions that have formed around brackets (bonded components);
• For early-stage cavities, when the enamel is already affected but no cavity has yet formed;
• For opalescent, chalky spots caused by enamel demineralization;
• For mild fluorosis, if there are cosmetically bothersome lesions;
• It may also be considered for minor, cosmetic enamel lesions, but the exact treatment can only be determined during a personal examination.
It is important to note, however, that ICON® is not the appropriate treatment in every case. In cases of deep decay or established cavities (holes), a filling is generally required, while for certain enamel development disorders, microabrasion, a composite veneer, or a porcelain veneer is recommended.
HOW DOES ICON® INFILTRATION WORK?
Beneath a white spot visible on the tooth surface, micropores often develop within the enamel. Light is refracted differently within these pores, causing the affected area to appear opaque or lighter in color.
ICON infiltration resin (resin infiltrant) has a low viscosity, allowing it to penetrate the micropores of the enamel. Once light-cured, it:
- seals the porous area,
- improves the optical appearance of the enamel,
- and may slow the progression of early-stage tooth decay (preventive effect).
1. Assessment and Consultation
The dentist examines the nature, depth, and extent of the white spot—and takes an X-ray if necessary.
2. Isolation
A saliva-free environment is necessary for the treatment to be effective.
3. Thorough cleaning of the teeth
4. Preparation
Using a special agent, we prepare the enamel surface so that the ICON® resin infiltrant can effectively penetrate the pores; after 2–3 minutes, we rinse off the solution.
5. Application of the infiltration resin
We apply the ICON® resin infiltrant to the treatment area to achieve the desired tooth shade.
6. Polymerization
We cure the area with a UV lamp, causing the material to set quickly.
7. Checking the results
IS ICON® TREATMENT PAINFUL?
ICON® therapy is not painful and can often be performed without anesthesia. Sensitivity may occur rarely, but it is typically mild and temporary.
AFTERCARE AND TIPS
After treatment, it is important to pay attention to the following:
Enhanced oral hygiene: thorough brushing and regular cleaning between teeth (using dental floss or interdental brushes).
Fluoride protection and checkups: white spots are often caused by enamel demineralization, so it is important to use fluoride toothpaste and have periodic dental checkups.
Regular professional oral hygiene treatments: Professional teeth cleaning (removal of plaque and tartar, polishing) helps reduce the risk of new spots forming and supports long-lasting results.
Enhanced plaque control while wearing braces: Removing plaque is particularly important when wearing braces; specialized toothbrushes and interdental cleaning tools can help with this.
A personal consultation and assessment are recommended to select the appropriate treatment plan: based on the examination, we can determine the ideal solution for you, and you’ll receive information about every important step and option, as well as the expected results! Click here to schedule an appointment online!
