Noninvasive esthetic masking of enamel hypoplasia: an alternative approach with polymer-based color stains

Developmental defects of enamel are structural alterations associated with changes during the stages of enamel formation and are frequently associated with the development of dental caries. These defects may increase dentinal sensitivity, impair esthetics, and lower self-esteem. Minimally invasive treatments are recommended approaches for managing these conditions, aiming to preserve the dental structure, especially in young patients. This case report of a 9-year-old boy with a developmental defect of enamel describes a noninvasive esthetic approach to treating enamel hypoplasia associated with dental caries in a permanent tooth after trauma to the primary predecessor. Treatment involved a desensitization protocol that included the use of a low-power laser and desensitizing paste with dentinal tubule--obliterating activity followed by a technique for masking the defect with polymer-based color stains according to the theory of complementary colors. The patient's sensitivity scores were recorded with a visual analog scale and the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, and Consolability (FLACC) scale before and after each intervention, and his oral health--related quality of life was measured using a questionnaire prior to the first session and on the last day of the treatment. For this patient, the protocol seemed to be effective at decreasing tooth sensitivity as well as improving dental esthetics and quality of life. The characterization technique represents a conservative and effective alternative to mask changes associated with enamel defects, especially in young patients.