Removal of intrinsic enamel stains with vital bleaching and modified microabrasion

This study utilized a vital bleaching agent as well as an enamel microabrasion compound with low hydrochloric acid concentration to remove intrinsic stains on the facial surfaces of anterior teeth. In addition, scanning electron microscopic analyses of enamel from extracted teeth compared the etching pattern of the commercial compound used in this study to 18% hydrochloric acid. Type 1 and Type 2 etch patterns were observed with 18% hydrochloric acid after 5 and 20 seconds, respectively. Milder and more diffuse etch patterns were observed with the enamel microabrasion compound. A conservative form of treatment to remove intrinsic stains would employ the use of a vital bleaching agent, followed by an enamel microabrasion compound.