GD568 - Minimally invasive treatments for developmental defects of enamel-GD568 Article

GD568 Article

Pdf Summary

Developmental defects of enamel (DDEs)—including fluorosis, hypoplasia, amelogenesis imperfecta, and molar-incisor hypomineralization—can cause discoloration, sensitivity, enamel breakdown, and esthetic concerns. Their appearance and severity vary with their causes and the depth of the defect, so accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment planning are essential. Because DDEs can resemble early caries, unnecessary invasive treatment should be avoided.<br /><br />This literature review describes diagnostic and treatment approaches guided by minimally invasive dentistry. Transillumination can help reveal enamel opacities and assess their extent; quantitative light-induced fluorescence can support evaluation of fluorosis and early caries.<br /><br />Treatment depends on lesion depth, color, and severity. Options include bleaching for some diffuse opacities, microabrasion to remove superficial defects, and resin infiltration to mask suitable hypomineralized lesions. Infiltration is less predictable for DDEs than for white-spot caries lesions and may not adequately conceal deep or dark discoloration. Combining it with microabrasion or carefully controlled macroabrasion can improve masking while preserving sound tooth structure. More severe defects may require composite restorations or, when structural support is needed, veneers or crowns.<br /><br />The authors emphasize selecting the least invasive suitable approach and adapting it to the patient’s needs. Combining conservative techniques may provide better esthetic and functional results than relying on one method alone.

Keywords

developmental defects of enamel

fluorosis

amelogenesis imperfecta

molar-incisor hypomineralization

enamel hypoplasia

minimally invasive dentistry

transillumination

resin infiltration

microabrasion

bleaching