A minimally invasive option for selected enamel lesions
ICON is a resin infiltration system used for selected early enamel lesions and white spots. The low-viscosity resin enters porous areas of enamel. In appropriate cases it can help manage an early lesion and reduce the visible contrast of a white mark.
At ProDent in Nysa, an examination comes first. A white spot can have different causes, and not every mark will respond to the same treatment. ICON does not replace a filling where a cavity has already formed, and it is not a whole-mouth whitening treatment.
When might ICON be suitable?
| Finding | What the assessment considers |
|---|---|
| White spots after fixed braces | Whether the marks represent suitable enamel demineralisation |
| Early decay without a cavity | The depth and activity of the lesion and appropriate preventive options |
| Other enamel marks | The cause, depth and likely response; some developmental changes are less predictable |
| An established hole in a tooth | A filling or another restoration may be needed instead |
| Deep decay or toothache | Further diagnosis and treatment of the affected tooth |
Some children may be suitable after assessment. Age alone does not determine the choice: the lesion, tooth development and ability to cooperate also matter.
How does resin infiltration change the appearance?
Porous enamel scatters light differently from healthy enamel, which can make it appear white. Resin entering those pores changes the way light passes through the area. The result depends on how deep the mark is and what caused it.
The aim may be to make a spot less noticeable, but complete disappearance cannot be promised. Your dentist will explain the likely benefit and alternatives, which can include monitoring, preventive care, whitening in suitable adults or a restorative approach.
What happens at the appointment?
- Assessment and cleaning: the dentist checks the lesion and prepares the surface.
- Isolation: the tooth is kept dry and the surrounding tissues protected.
- Surface preparation: the selected area is treated and dried according to the system’s protocol.
- Resin infiltration: resin is applied to penetrate the prepared enamel and then light-cured.
- Finishing: the surface is polished and the appearance reviewed.
Treatment can often be completed in one visit. It generally does not involve conventional drilling of a cavity and may not require local anaesthetic. You can still experience discomfort from isolation or the procedure; tell the dentist if anything is uncomfortable.
What ICON can and cannot do
Resin infiltration is different from fluoride treatment, fissure sealing and composite bonding. Each has a specific purpose. ICON does not rebuild a missing part of a tooth, correct its shape or treat an infected pulp.
It also does not make a tooth permanently resistant to decay. Continue brushing with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth and following dietary advice. Review appointments let the dentist monitor the treated area and your overall oral health.
If a lesion is unsuitable for infiltration, the dentist will explain alternatives. See fillings and composite bonding and dental hygiene and whitening.
Common questions
Does ICON treatment hurt?
It is usually carried out without drilling a conventional cavity, and anaesthetic may not be needed. Comfort varies, so tell the dentist if the preparation or isolation is uncomfortable.
Will the white spot disappear completely?
Not necessarily. The depth and cause of the mark influence the result. Some spots blend in well, while others remain partly visible.
Is the result permanent?
No cosmetic outcome or freedom from future decay can be guaranteed. The tooth still needs preventive care and reviews, and its appearance can change over time.
How is the cost calculated?
The scope is assessed by tooth and treatment area. See the restorative dentistry price list and ask for an estimate after examination.
How does ICON compare with bonding or veneers?
ICON infiltrates selected porous enamel. Bonding adds composite to the tooth, while a veneer covers part of its surface and may require preparation. These are different treatments with different indications.
Book an assessment or call 570 400 405. Product information is available from DMG, the manufacturer of ICON.
