Dental treatment icon. Treatment of caries with the icon method (icon)

Ikon technology, as practically the only alternative to a filling, appeared in modern dentistry relatively recently, but has already managed to establish itself as an excellent and, more importantly, a painless way to treat caries. What are the features of ICON technology, and what are its advantages, will be discussed in our article.

Features and benefits of Ikon

When it comes to the Ikon method, it means the treatment of damaged enamel with a special solution that can penetrate deep into it. Previously, in the treatment of superficial caries (a disease that occurs in the enamel and does not affect the dentin), dentists acted according to one of two possible plans: they drilled the enamel and immediately placed a filling, or they treated the affected area with fluorine and observed further developments. Unfortunately, in the vast majority of cases, when using the second method, superficial caries gradually passed into the deeper layers of the tooth, thus necessitating the use of a filling.

How is the treatment with the help of the drug "Ikon"?

It should be noted that when using ICON, there is no need to use anesthesia, which is especially important during the treatment of people prone to allergic reactions. First of all, the doctor isolates the damaged tooth, then applies a gel on it, which is designed to open the pores in the focus of caries, and then dries the area to be treated with the drug. Only after that it is possible to use a pore-filling infiltrant and impregnate the tooth in two stages - first for three minutes, then one more. By means of a polymerization lamp, a rejection, removal of isolation and polishing of the surface of an already healthy tooth is carried out. The whole procedure takes from fifteen to forty minutes, depending on the complexity and stage of development of caries.

It is not necessary to repeat the procedure, it is advisable only in case of an individual predisposition to the development of caries due to increased consumption of carbohydrates and non-compliance with elementary hygiene rules oral cavity. As for contraindications, Ikon is not recommended for use in children under the age of three, as they will not be able to sit still for even fifteen minutes.

The essence of the procedure
Advantages
Indications
disadvantages
Conclusion
Contraindications Icon

Modern dentistry demonstrates a number of persistent trends, including: painlessness, focus on preventive effects, the use of the most sparing techniques and the desire to avoid dissecting procedures.

All these trends are fully consistent with the innovative method of treating carious formations - Icon.

The name of this technology comes from the merger of two terms - Infiltration CONcept, which is translated from in English means "concept of infiltration".

This method was developed and patented in 2008 by German dentists, after which it was successfully tested in many European countries, as well as in the USA and Japan. The procedure was able to successfully replace the previously widely used fluorination technique due to its superiority.

The essence of the procedure

The basic principle of the infiltration effect is the use of special substances for the treatment of cavities caused by caries. This method is called microinvasive - one that has a minimal degree of penetration into the dental tissue.

The developer - DMG Corporation (Germany) - offers to get rid of caries stains not by mechanical (drilling), but by chemical (dissolution and blocking) methods. We are talking about the treatment of caries, and not about the simple brightening of the surface of the teeth, which belongs to the field of aesthetic dentistry.

The Icon gel-infiltrant specially synthesized by scientists is a special polymer substance with a viscous structure. Outwardly, it evokes an association with the texture of resin, but of a different color. The gel is applied to the surface of the tooth, penetrates into the enamel. After that, the activation of its action begins. The gel eliminates lesions, blocks the further spread of the disease and “seals” the enamel. The infiltration polymer helps to neutralize cariogenic acids that cause decay of the tooth structure.

In the process of using the infiltration substance, remineralization of the carious surface occurs. Damaged areas are cured, and healthy ones receive additional prevention for the future.

Enamel, which, under the influence of caries, has acquired a porous structure and become brittle, is strengthened after using the gel. Particles of the infiltration substance fill the pores, making the tooth insensitive to adverse environmental factors.

The main functions of the infiltration gel:

destruction of carious formations;
preventing their further spread;
improvement of the general condition of tooth enamel.

The Icon method is suitable for treatment of vestibular and proximal surfaces. After the end of the procedure, the teeth look natural: their natural shape does not change, a uniform color is preserved, stains and painful formations disappear.

The whole process takes place without pain and discomfort, so patients do not need to use anesthetics. This allows the use of the gel infiltrant in the treatment of people who, due to their age, special health conditions or allergies, are forced to forego pain relief during routine dental procedures.

The infiltrating substance has a good effect not only on the molars, but also on milk teeth, so treatment with Icon gel can be prescribed even to small children. The effectiveness of the technique is more than 80%. This is precisely the indicator of cases when it was possible to avoid further development of caries and tissue destruction after one procedure of infiltration treatment.

Advantages

The developers of the Aikon technology set themselves the goal of providing the possibility of caries treatment without the use of drilling equipment. This is the key advantage of the innovative technology, which allows you to avoid pain and surgical intervention in the treatment of caries.

The main advantages of the Infiltration CONcept technique:

minimization of physical and psychological discomfort for the patient;
sparing effect that does not damage healthy tooth tissues;
the ability to get rid of carious formations without drilling;
suitable not only for adults, but also for the smallest patients with caries;
can be used in hard-to-reach places, where it is problematic to get during treatment with a drill;
you can get rid of caries in one visit to the dentist;
the infiltration procedure itself takes about 20-25 minutes;
after treatment, the natural shape of the tooth is completely preserved;
no need for filling.

After applying the special infiltration gel Icon, not only the treatment of diseased teeth is observed, but also an improvement in the condition of healthy ones. They become stronger, less susceptible to destructive factors - for example, sweet foods.

Due to its wide range of benefits, painlessness and short duration of exposure, the Icon method is indicated for the treatment of caries in children who are panic-stricken with a drill and other dental equipment. The application of a unique gel to the affected areas does not cause pain and fear in babies.

Indications

The main indication for using the infiltration method is caries in initial stage.

The application of a disinfecting gel is also recommended after removing the braces. This treatment procedure is often accompanied by the appearance of specific dark spots on enamel. The innovative Icon technology helps not only to cure the area affected by carious manifestations, but also to lighten the tooth enamel in places of its darkening.

Another indication is the need to treat hard-to-reach places on the tooth, the interdental space. Sometimes the lesion reaches areas where drilling is not possible. The application of the gel is not limited to the visible side of the teeth, so even the side and back walls, as well as microscopic cracks and chips, can be treated with it.

Treatment of carious diseases with the help of infiltration treatment is indicated even when other methods cannot be applied, for example, if a pregnant patient turned to the dentist.

Contraindications Icon

The list of contraindications for the Aikon procedure is limited. It includes:

special cases of allergic reactions to one of the components of the substance;
the presence of defects in tooth enamel;
too deep lesions that have reached the deep layers of the dentin;
the child is less than three years old;
fluorosis.

Upon detection serious violations tooth enamel, the use of the gel will not give the desired effect and may cause pain to the patient. Therefore, for advanced cases of caries, it is better to use classical techniques that require drilling.

Features of the procedure

Technologically, the process of treating caries with Icon is carried out in stages:

mechanical cleaning of the tooth surface;
bacterial plaque is removed;
a special latex plate is put on the teeth to isolate them;
dental wedges are used to reach hard-to-reach areas;
the diseased area is treated with a disinfectant;
exposure time - three minutes;
the gel is washed off with water;
the tooth enamel is dried with a jet of air.

At the final stage, the cleaned areas are treated with a polymeric substance and illuminated under a lamp. The final touch is grinding of the tooth surface.

The entire Icon procedure usually takes no more than half an hour and does not require the patient to return to the dental office.

After finishing work, the dentist should instruct the patient about the specifics of oral care. Post-procedural requirements are minimal: it is enough to refrain from smoking, drinking coloring drinks (tea, coffee) for the next two to three hours.

disadvantages

Like any other, even the most innovative technology, Icon has a number of disadvantages. They do not negate the positive impression of this method of treatment, but must be taken into account for its correct application.

First, infiltration is not effective if carious lesions develop rapidly and reach the internal tissues of the tooth.

Secondly, the infiltration gel can only be used on a smooth surface, the presence of deep cracks and chips is unacceptable.

Thirdly, work with infiltration equipment requires special training of the dentist. Otherwise, Icon treatment may not be effective. In addition, an incorrect assessment of the degree of carious damage can lead to the penetration of the gel to the nerve itself.

The last drawback of the Icon technique relates to the economic component of the procedure. Due to its innovativeness, it remains expensive, so it is not very popular yet.

Conclusion

In general, the infiltration technique for its relatively short period of existence has established itself as effective and comfortable for the patient. The use of the innovative Icon gel allows you to successfully fight the initial manifestations of carious destruction and prevent their further development.

Safety, painlessness and short time of manipulations make this procedure universal. All of the above factors provide good prospects for the use of Icon technology for the treatment of caries.

The name Icon is an acronym for Infiltration Concept. This is a technology that was developed in Germany and gained popularity around the world in a short time. Treatment of caries with the Icon infiltration method takes place without the use of a drill, and this is its main innovative component. With the help of special tools and auxiliary solutions, a polymer solution is applied to the tooth, which hardens under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. It destroys pathogenic bacteria, seals the carious area and restores the density of the enamel. In general, the infiltration system is a set that includes:

Tools (syringes and nozzles for working with the vestibular and approximal surfaces of the teeth, interdental wedges);
Pickling gel Icon-etch, which includes hydrochloric acid;
Conditioner Icon-Dry, used to dry the tooth after gel treatment;
Infiltration material (caries treatment without Icon preparation is largely based on its properties).

Aikon treatment - indications and contraindications

At the time of the appearance of the infiltration technique, many experts called the technology a small dental miracle, since it became possible to do without a drill. However, Icon's non-invasive caries treatment is only effective in certain cases.

Indications

The initial type of caries with a depth of E1, E2, D1 (where E1 is an external enamel lesion, D1 is one third of the dentin injury). However, some experts still do not recommend the treatment of caries with Icon at a depth of D1.
Dentophobia, fear of local anesthesia.
Chalk spots after orthodontic treatment (braces removal).
Initial caries in hard-to-reach areas (especially in the interdental spaces).

Contraindications

Treatment of caries without an Icon drill cannot be carried out with an advanced form of the disease that has affected more than one third of the dentin.
Cannot be used to combat enamel diseases (erosion, hypoplasia, etc.).
The technology is contraindicated for the treatment of children under three years of age due to the presence of components that can damage too sensitive enamel.
In case of individual allergic reactions to materials and components.

How is caries treated with the Icon method?

The treatment of caries by the Ikon method takes very little time: an average of 20-30 minutes. In addition, the technology does not require any special preparation: in the absence of contraindications, the procedure is performed in one visit.

Stages of treatment by the Ikon method

Cleaning of teeth and oral cavity, obligatory drying.
Installation of interdental wedges to highlight the working surface and protect other teeth.
Apply the etching gel for about 2 minutes.
Washing off the gel.
Thoroughly dry teeth with air pressure and Icon-Dry Conditioner.
Application of the infiltrate (in two stages).
Ultraviolet transillumination (in the first stage - 3 minutes, in the second stage - 1 minute).

Pros and cons of caries infiltration with the Icon method

Today, various types of caries treatment without a drill are used in many advanced clinics - both in Russia and around the world. Icon's popularity proves that infiltration is a reliable and successful technology. In many ways, this is true, but there are experts who are rather cool about this technique, pointing out some disadvantages. Some of them do not recommend the use of technology at all, even with the slightest damage to the dentin.

Treatment of initial caries according to the Icon system is a reliable and safe technique.
Maximum preservation of tooth tissues and strengthening of the enamel structure.
The patient does not feel pain and feels discomfort.
For people who are afraid of drills and injections, Icon's innovative caries treatment is a great alternative.
The procedure takes no more than half an hour.

Suitable only for elimination initial forms caries.
There is no 100% guarantee of protection against secondary caries (although this risk is minimal).
The technique is not practiced in all clinics.
If we consider the same clinical cases, then the prices for Icon are on average 1,000 - 2,000 rubles higher than for the installation of a seal.

The drill always causes a feeling of fear in everyone. Of course, who is pleased to hear the buzzing and drilling in the tooth, which is sometimes accompanied by more unpleasant sensations. But technology has long gone far ahead, so now there is a unique way of restoration, which does not use standard methods of cleaning the cavity of the teeth. One of these is Icon caries treatment technology. Due to the fact that during this method of treatment a drill is not used, it has become quite popular among many patients. But still, before applying this method, you need to carefully study its features.

The name of the medical technology Icon comes from the abbreviation Infiltration Concept, in translation it means “the concept of infiltration”. It was first invented in Germany by DMG, then it was introduced into the practice of European dentists, and then it began to be used in Russia. In Russia, e began to be used not so long ago, only 6 years ago. But despite short term existence, it has become a fairly popular technology, the thing is that during it there is a low interference in the work of the human body.

Attention! The principle of Icon technology is based on the fact that during it, a doctor injects a special polymer composition into the affected area. The main task of this composition is that it completely closes the open cavity and stops the process of further spread of bacteria.

Also, using this technique, you can completely restore the density of the structure of the dental tissue, make it more durable and resistant to the effects of acid environments that can be observed in the oral cavity.
With the help of infiltration, it is possible to stop the process of spreading a carious lesion at the “white spot” stage without the use of a drill. Due to the fact that during medical therapy drilling is not carried out, a large amount of dental tissue can be saved.

ICON is a modern technique for the treatment of superficial caries without anesthesia and without a drill. The essence of the technique is to seal the tooth enamel damaged by caries with a special innovative material.

Characteristics

The Icon infiltration method has a number of features:

this method of treatment is effective when the carious lesions of the teeth are not yet in a deep stage. If it is used already at advanced stages, then its use will not give any results and will be ineffective;
using this method, an increased strengthening of the structure of the dental tissue is provided, which in the future can protect against acid exposure.
Important! It should be borne in mind that during this technology, a thin layer of dental tissue is burned out, but still it is much less than when using a drill.
After the Icon infiltration method, the enamel does not crack and retains its original structure;
this method of treatment cannot always stop the spread of a carious lesion, sometimes it continues to spread. In these cases, the tooth structure is restored and treated according to the classical method.

Impregnation of the enamel with a colorless monobond is Icon infiltration. This method allows you to get rid of caries at the stain stage. With its help, a natural remineralization of the carious lesion occurs.

Advantages

Icon infiltration technology has a number of advantages, among which are the following:

During its implementation, a small level of destruction of the structure of the dental tissue is observed, while the treatment is carried out without preparation;
Fast execution of the procedure, the period of which is about 20-25 minutes;
During this method of treatment, a drill and anesthesia are not used, so the patient does not feel pain;
During the Icon method, there is no stress on healthy areas of the teeth, which are often observed with the classical method of treatment;
The area treated using Icon technology does not visually stand out and does not differ in any way from the structure of healthy teeth;
After this method of treatment, the structure of the teeth retains its original state.

The preparation for the treatment of dental caries by the Icon method allows you to treat teeth without using a burr machine. Drill-free treatment helps preserve healthy tooth tissue by minimizing mechanical intervention, and the absence of anesthesia makes the procedure more comfortable.

disadvantages

The disadvantages include the following nuances:

this method will be effective only with superficial caries. At severe stages of caries, methods of preparation and removal of dental tissues are used;
Icon technology compared to other classical methods costs almost twice as much;
the use of this method requires a highly qualified doctor and the development of innovative technologies;
many dentists believe that this procedure is not effective in the treatment of carious lesions.

The result of dental treatment using the infiltration method is the sealing of the porous part of the damaged enamel, the creation and maintenance of a more resistant tooth tissue to aggressive stimuli.

How is the procedure carried out

The technology of the Icon method is carried out in several stages:

At the first stage, a thorough cleaning is performed, and dental deposits are also removed. First of all, soft plaque is removed;
It is important that the infiltration area is completely dry, which is why many dentists use rubber dams. During the treatment, a latex base plate is installed, which provides isolation of the treated teeth from the oral cavity for the period of medical therapy;
Next, the teeth are wedged using special wedges. This procedure is quite unpleasant, but it can be tolerated. Tools are used to move the teeth away from each other;
After that, the hard tissues of the tooth are prepared for infiltration.
Important! A special gel with an etching structure is applied to the area with a lesion, this agent contains sodium hypochlorite and amino acids.
This remedy is left for a couple of minutes, after which a porous surface opens, on which the doctor performs the rest of the therapeutic manipulations;
The gel is washed off with a water-air spray, then the tooth surface is thoroughly dried;
Next, a special nozzle is used, which was developed by DMG. Two different polymers are applied to the tooth surface in two stages. The first polymer is applied and left for 3 minutes, then lightening is carried out. The second type of polymer is applied for 1 minute. After the defect is completely sealed and filled, the carious lesion is sealed with an infiltrate;
The result is visible immediately after this procedure. The tooth becomes white, and it does not differ from other healthy teeth.

The main stages of the procedure: isolation of the tooth with a rubber dam - treatment of the affected surface with a special gel - drying of the pores using an alcohol solution - applying an infiltrate to the tooth surface - polymerization - polishing the surface.

Contraindications

Despite the fact that this procedure has a gentle effect, allows you to restore the damaged structure of the teeth without the use of cavity preparation with a drill, its use has some contraindications.
You should not use Icon teeth infiltration if you have the following contraindications:

the presence of medium or deep carious lesions;
if the patient has an individual intolerance to the components that are used during this procedure;
the presence of fluorosis or enamel hyperplasia.

In other cases, the Icon procedure is not prohibited. This treatment technology can be used even during pregnancy, in early childhood, therefore it has a gentle effect.

Attention! The preparations that are used during this procedure are absolutely hyperallergenic. But before using them, it is still recommended to conduct the necessary examination and pass the appropriate tests.

To carry out this technology, it is required that the doctor has extensive experience, as well as high equipment of dental clinics. For this reason, few dental clinics and doctors undertake this procedure. Also, many old-school dentists do not believe in the effectiveness of this method at all.
Whether it is worth using this method of treatment is not an unambiguous question. Of course, at the first stage, when the carious lesion looks like a white spot, the use of standard methods of treatment with a drill can only worsen the condition of the teeth, especially when drilling there is a large loss of tooth tissue. In these cases, a cavity is formed, which has to be filled with filling material. But the treatment of caries using Icon technology is carried out without preparation, so it is often used at the initial signs of damage. Special polymer products allow you to restore the structure of the teeth without cleaning with a drill. In any case, the choice is always up to the patient, and of course it depends on the condition of the lesion and on the recommendations of the dentist.

Icon Technology is a painless caries treatment that does not require enamel drilling. A special solution (polymer) is applied to damaged enamel, making it durable and resistant to bacteria. As a result, the development of caries stops and the natural color of the teeth is restored.

Liquid filling Icon: what is it?

Icon is an abbreviation of the words Infiltration Concept, which means "the concept of infiltration." Infiltration is a micro-invasive, that is, gentle dental treatment. The principle is that the liquid light-composite material penetrates the porous enamel and reliably “seals” the exposed surface of the tooth.

Ikon was developed by the German company DMG and has been used worldwide since 2000.

Advantages over traditional fillings:

Sparing methods of dental treatment also include laser therapy and ozone treatment. However, these procedures require special equipment. Much easier to use infiltrate.

When is dental treatment performed without a drill?

The Icon treatment is used only in the initial stage of caries (the superficial spot stage). There are several categories of carious focus according to the depth of the lesion. According to the degree of penetration into the enamel, the forms E1 and E2 are distinguished, and according to the depth of penetration into the dentin - D1, D2 and D3.

With the help of the infiltrate, only defects of types E1, E2 and D1 can be eliminated. That is, with a deep carious “hollow”, which has affected most of the dentin, it is already necessary to drill out the affected areas and put a filling.

The drug can be used in case of damage to any zone of enamel, including in the cervical and interdental areas, as well as on fissures (the surface of chewing teeth). Sure signs that you should use Ikon are the formation of a chalky spot on the crown and increased sensitivity to cold and hot food.

It makes no sense to use the solution for healthy enamel, for example, for the purpose of remineralization. In this case, it is better to carry out fluoridation. There are no other contraindications to the use of Icon.

Ikon caries treatment procedure

The gentle Icon treatment takes between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the number of carious lesions in the oral cavity. At the same time, there is no buzzing and vibration of the drill, there is no pain.

The set includes several applicators with different preparations, which must be applied alternately.

Icon Treatment Stages:

Isolation of the tooth crown with a rubber dam (thin latex film).
Application of "etching" gel with HCl to open pores in the carious area.
Drying the treated area with warm air.
Application of the infiltrant (performed twice).
Illumination with a polymerization lamp to solidify the liquid.
Removing the insulating film.
Polishing the surface of the tooth to achieve perfect smoothness and shine.

After the procedure, you can lead a normal life and eat your favorite food.

Photo after Icon treatment

Is Icon suitable for children?

The Icon method is ideal for the treatment of children's teeth, including milk teeth. Children and adolescents tolerate the procedure well, much easier than filling.

Previously, dentists used silvering of milk teeth, which stained the enamel in a dark color. And the child walked with such "terrible" teeth until they were replaced with permanent ones. The Icon method does not have this drawback.

However, many doctors do not use infiltration for children under 3 years old, due to the fact that at this age babies are restless. It is hard for them to sit in the dentist's chair even for 15-20 minutes.

In 80% of cases, the Ikon method helps to avoid fillings over the next few years. And in many cases, patients do not have to put fillings at all. But remember, the sooner you see a dentist, the more likely you are to apply micro-invasive treatment without drilling.

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