Now that your white spots are gone, you'll want to learn what to expect after treatment and how to maintain your beautiful new smile. Here are some common questions we hear from patients after ICON resin infiltration treatment.
How Soon Will I See the Results After the Treatment?
Because the resin now resides in your tooth's pores and has been cured with a special light to harden it, it takes on the shade of your tooth for immediate results. Our patients love that resin infiltration treatment is essentially non-invasive, as they typically don't need a dental anaesthetic, and it delivers quick results.
Will the Treated Area Stain Over Time?
While the resin used in filtration treatment is stain-resistant, it can still discolor over time. There are some steps you can take at home to help minimize tooth and resin staining.
- Establish consistent home care — Brushing your teeth twice daily helps remove food and debris particles after meals, which can contribute to tooth stains.
- Limit your consumption of tooth-staining foods and drinks — Drinking plenty of water and limiting your intake of things like red wine, black coffee and tea, and marinara sauce will help prevent tooth stains.
- Drink from a straw — Using a straw prevents the contact of tooth-staining beverages with your teeth, helping you maintain your excellent results.
- Drink plenty of water — Water helps hydrate your mouth and washes away remaining food particles that could contribute to staining.
- Schedule a professional teeth cleaning — Visiting your dentist in Los Gatos for routine teeth cleanings and exams will help to maintain your bright, beautiful smile.
How Much Does ICON Resin Infiltration Cost?
The answer to that question varies widely from patient to patient, depending on their needs and the complexity of their case. For example, the cost of treating three teeth with ICON resin filtration is much less than treating six teeth. The complexity of each tooth's needs will also differ.
The best way to determine the cost of your ICON treatment is to book an evaluation with Dr. Lin. He spends a lot of time reviewing your needs and explaining the nature of his treatment recommendations. He will also discuss options, including other choices and their costs, so you can make an informed decision about your smile.
ICON resin infiltration treatment is a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual's unique needs.
Does Dental Insurance Cover This Procedure?
Dental insurance coverage for resin infiltration treatment varies widely across plans. Many dental insurance plans consider this a cosmetic procedure and therefore will not cover it. If resin filtration treatment is needed to prevent further tooth decay, a dental insurance company may cover it.
Our friendly and knowledgeable financial team can help you navigate your dental insurance benefits and give you an estimate of what your out-of-pocket expense might be. At James Lin, DMD, we will always work with you to fit the treatment you need for your smile comfortably into your budget.
What Are the Reasons Why ICON Might Not Work for My Specific White Spot or Lesion?
ICON resin filtration treatment works well for demineralized areas or early decay. It may not be as effective for lesions that penetrate beyond the tooth's enamel into the dentin layer, or for lesions caused by genetic defects or conditions such as severe fluorosis.
Enamel must be porous to effectively accept and integrate the resin. If the lesion's surface is not porous, the resin may not properly infiltrate. Dr. Lin will determine if ICON treatment will be effective for your needs during an initial pre-treatment evaluation.
What Are the Alternatives if ICON Is Not the Right Choice for Me?
If Dr. Lin determines that ICON treatment won't suit your needs, we can discuss alternative treatment with options like:
- Traditional Dental Fillings — A composite resin filling that fills a larger area may be a more suitable option for stubborn lesions that won't respond to ICON treatment.
- Porcelain or Composite Veneers — A dental veneer covers the front surface of the tooth. It may be made of ceramic porcelain, or composite resin can also be added to the tooth to cover cosmetic imperfections.
Let's Talk about Your Options
Are you interested in resin filtration near me in the 95032 area? If so, we can help! To book an evaluation with our cosmetic dentist in Los Gatos, CA, contact our team at (408) 358-2161 to schedule or request a visit online.