Effect of resin infiltration on the color and microhardness of bleached white(-)spot lesions in bovine enamel (an in vitro study)

A selection of abstracts of clinically relevant papers from other journals. The abstracts on this page have been chosen and edited by John R. Radford.

Abstract

This study would appear to give little steer as to which of the many approaches most effectively manage white spot lesions.

Main

Horuztepe SA, Baseren M. J Esthet Restor Dent 2017; doi: 10.1111/jerd.12308

It speak volumes that many non-invasive methods of camouflaging white spot lesions have been described. These include CPP-ACP, fluoride-containing products, microabrasion and even the use of a laser. But which is most effective? This study examined outcomes of resin infiltration and bleaching, both singly and in combination, on white spot lesions. This in-vitro study used caries-like artificial demineralisation lesions in bovine teeth. The investigators reported that after bleaching the white spot lesions were less visible (measured using the CIE L*, a*, and b* system). This finding is difficult to interpret in that Table 2 shows no difference in colour alteration values between 'Baseline vs white spot lesion formation' (P = 0.878). It was also argued, but did not test, that if these white spot lesions were then treated with resin infiltration, future diffusion of stains would be precluded. Resin infiltration increased the microhardness of bleached and unbleached white spot lesions. The study (Acta Odontol Scand 2015; 73: 441–446) showing that white spot lesions can regress without any intervention was not cited.