Microabrasion and composite resin for re-establishing smile esthetics: a case report

Resumo

Dental hypomineralization such as dental fluorosis
has increased in recent times leading to unaesthetic appearance
of teeth. There are different treatment possibilities to improve
the aesthetic appearance of hypomineralized enamel described in
dental literature. The enamel microabrasion has been a feasible
alternative, since it is a fast, safe, conservative, and easy to perform,
which promotes good esthetic results. Moreover, this technique is
a conservative method that improves the appearance of the teeth
by restoring bright and superficial smoothness, without causing
significant structural loss. The association of different techniques,
such as direct composite resin, can provide good esthetic outcomes,
but the etiology, intensity, and depth of stain should be considered
to minimize dental structure loss. Objective: To describe an easy
technique for managing dental fluorosis using enamel microabrasion
in association with direct composite resin. Case report: A mixture
of hydrochloric acid and silicon carbide was applied according the
manufacturer’s instructions. Subsequently, a direct composite resin
was applied over the areas where the opacities were more evident.
This conservative approach may be considered an interesting alternative treatment to remove fluorosis staining and to improve
aesthetic appearance. Conclusion: enamel microabrasion combined
with direct composite resin is a conservative and safe alternative
method to treat enamel opacities from dental fluorosis. Therefore,
this management provides satisfactory aesthetic results for the
patient’s smile.