What is Enamel Microabrasion?

What is enamel microabrasion?

Enamel microabrasion is a permanent cosmetic dentistry treatment that removes discolourations from the tooth surface. Yellow and brown spots on the tooth are often decalcification stains caused by a build-up of sugar and acids that weaken enamel. This procedure is typically done to improve the appearance of teeth staining due to enamel defects that occur during tooth development or from fluorosis.

Is enamel microabrasion healthy?

Enamel microabrasion can be better for your teeth than other whitening methods since the procedure does not require harsh chemicals. This non-invasive treatment only removes micro-layers of enamel to ensure as much protection as possible remains. The whitening effects of enamel microabrasion are effective and long-lasting, and your dentist can determine if you're a candidate for the treatment.

Enamel microabrasion before and after

Before treatment. Enamel microabrasion whitens teeth with mechanical dental tools rather than harsh chemicals. A dental professional may recommend the treatment for people with discoloured teeth from drinking coffee, poor oral hygiene, genetics, or dental fluorosis. According to the NHS, dental fluorosis produces fine white lines or, in severe cases, discolouration or a “pitted” appearance. If you experience mineralised white stains and surface irregularities on your teeth, contact your dental professional to see if enamel microabrasion is the correct treatment for you.

After treatment. Once the procedure is complete, the surface of the protective enamel will appear radiant, shiny and glass-like. People who undergo enamel microabrasion can experience a smoother tooth surface, which helps to reduce bacterial colonisation resulting in a potential decreased risk of tooth decay.

What happens in an enamel microabrasion procedure?

The treatment for enamel microabrasion is usually quick and painless, though some teeth sensitivity may occur in the first 24 hours. Your dental professional will likely use a mechanical rotating device called a prophy cup to grind down the teeth instead of whitening them with harsh chemicals. A typical enamel microabrasion procedure can involve the following steps:

1. The teeth are isolated from the gums with a rubber dam.
2. Acidic and abrasive agents are applied to the teeth in the form of a paste.
3. Your dental professional will gently scrub the paste with a prophy cup to remove discolouration and layers of stains.
4. The paste is suctioned, then rinsed from the teeth.
5. To further blend the colour of the teeth, your dentist may give you take-home whitening.

How long does an enamel microabrasion procedure take?

An enamel microabrasion procedure occurs in one appointment and should take no more than an hour to complete. Multiple appointments for this procedure are not standard practice.

Knowing the safe options for teeth whitening is vital. Enamel microabrasion is minimally invasive, and a great solution for people with mineralised spots on their teeth. Speak with a dental professional to see if enamel microabrasion is the best treatment to help give you a smile you love.