Treatment of Chromatic Alterations in Young Permanent Teeth

Objectives: This work provides a new protocol for treatment of chromatic alterations on young permanent teeth in young patients. Methods: One hundred and fifty young permanent teeth with chromatic alterations were treated in patients aged from 8 to 13 yrs, who had a previous diagnosis of fluorosis or dental hypoplasia. The teeth were treated with a new technique of enamel microabrasion, using chloridric acid at 10% associated with pumice. The technique consists of three 30-second applications, performed with a soft rubber cup and the micromotor at the minimum rotation and minimum pressure, with 10-second rinsing between them. After the enamel microabrasion, acidulated phosphate fluoride was applied on the teeth surface for 1 minute. The residual acid was neutralized with sodium bicarbonate before disposal. Results: The removal of enamel stains and irregularities was observed with excellent esthetic results, as well as a lower operatory period, in a single session, under absolute isolation without local anesthesia and no side effects. Treatment efficacy was 100% for fluorosis cases and an important auxiliary therapy in cases with enamel hypoplasia as a pre-restoration treatment, since it establishes the boundaries of the hypoplastic stain. The technique can be used in young teeth and young patients with no sensitivity by patients. Enamel wear is clinically imperceptible and eliminates the need for final polishing, and the technique is affordable, easy to perform, and quite safe when adequately performed. Conclusion: The microabrasion technique using chloridric acid at 10% in a single session presents higher benefits and lower risks for young patients when compared to other techniques.