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What Is Enamel Microabrasion?

what-is-enamel-microabrasion

Put simply, enamel micro abrasion is a cosmetic dental treatment that whitens your smile. If you have white or brown discolouration on the surface of the teeth, or have a condition such as fluorosis, you could be an ideal candidate for the procedure. Skip to:

What is enamel micro abrasion?

This irreversible procedure gently removes a thin layer of the enamel to eliminate surface stains and discolouration caused by diet, smoking, poor oral hygiene and, as mentioned earlier, fluorosis. It is not suitable for patients with severe discolouration or thin enamel. Enamel micro abrasion is considered a cosmetic treatment and is therefore not available on the NHS. The cost of enamel micro abrasion in the UK starts around £100.

Explaining the enamel micro abrasion procedure

Let’s go through what a typical enamel micro abrasion appointment would look like, step by step, to give you a better idea of what the treatment involves.

  1. A rubber dam is used to isolate the teeth from the gums.
  2. Next, an abrasive paste is applied to the teeth.
  3. Your dentist then scrubs the paste into the teeth with a mechanical device (usually a prophy cup).
  4. The paste is removed.

Is enamel micro abrasion painful? Not at all. This is because there is no nerve supply in the tooth’s enamel. However, some patients report having some sensitivity in the first few days following their treatment.

Advantages and disadvantages of enamel micro abrasion

As with all dental procedures, there are pros and cons to take into consideration before undergoing the treatment.

ProsCons

Suitable for mild to moderate surface discolouration and dental fluorosis.

Not effective for those with severe discolouration and internal staining.

Treats minor enamel defects, such as pits and erosion.

Temporary sensitivity after procedure.

Significant confidence boost.

Requires part of the enamel to be removed, which is irreversible.

Immediate results, with just one appointment typically required.

Underlying dentin can make teeth appear yellow due to the enamel abrasion.

Low cost.

A localised treatment – not suitable for those wanting all-over whitening.

Perfect for small spots and stains.

Has the ability to weaken the enamel.

Pain-free and non-invasive.

Not available on the NHS.

Long-lasting results (if smile is well cared for by the patient).

Individuals with naturally weak or thin enamel cannot have the treatment.

 

How long does enamel micro abrasion last?

Offering an immediate smile transformation, the results of enamel micro abrasion can last for years. Many dentists also provide patients with a teeth whitening kit after the procedure is finished to enhance the results even further. The lifespan of enamel micro abrasion is greatly impacted by your daily habits. If you have a diet that includes lots of staining food and drinks, your teeth will discolour. Poor oral hygiene will also accelerate discolouration, so it is important that you maintain regular brushing, flossing and visits to the dentist. Finally, stop smoking and vaping! Nicotine is recognised to turn teeth yellow, brown and even black in colour. They also cause numerous oral health issues and serious long-term health problems.

Alternatives to enamel micro abrasion

Enamel micro abrasion isn’t suitable for everyone. If you want a dazzling smile, there are many teeth whitening treatments that will achieve this.

In-clinic teeth whitening

For those looking for a quick whitening solution, consider booking an appointment with a qualified administrator in a private dental clinic. Completed in just one session, the procedure includes painting your teeth with a high-grade bleaching gel, before a special light or laser is then used to activate the gel.

  • Price: £300 - £1000.
  • Longevity: 2 - 3 years.

At-home teeth whitening kit

Our kit equips you with everything you need to refresh the colour of your teeth from the comfort of home. A prescription 16% concentration of carbamide peroxide is used, as well as bespoke trays that fit your teeth like a glove, to provide 360° whitening that isn’t patchy or streaky.

  • YDS Price: £395.
  • YDS Longevity: 12 months.

Nanofill Composite Bonding®

Exclusive to Yorkshire Dental Suite, this proprietary procedure offers an elevated take on dental bonding, disguising cracks, chips, gaps and discolouration with an ultra-white resin. Nanofill is a more long-term solution to your discoloured smile than regular teeth whitening, lasting up to eight years if well cared for.

  • YDS Price: £495 per tooth.
  • YDS Longevity: 3 - 8 years.

Porcelain veneers

In full transparency, we would not recommend getting porcelain veneers for whitening alone. However, if you have severe discolouration (alongside years of dental wear and tear), then porcelain veneers are a great choice. Each hand-crafted shell is sealed to the tooth to instantly transform its colour, shape and size.

  • YDS Price: £895 per tooth.
  • YDS Longevity: 15+ years.

Hygiene appointments

Some patients are able to brighten their smile with a quick visit to the hygienist. These specialist appointments remove plaque and tartar from the teeth, as well as surface stains caused by things such as tea and coffee. Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) and scaling and root planing are two examples of the appointments available at YDS.

  • YDS Price: £100 - £175.

Conclusion: While the name may sound intimidating, enamel micro abrasion is actually a gentle, pain-free procedure that gives your smile a dazzling appearance. Enquire about teeth whitening with Yorkshire Dental Suite today and kickstart your journey to a more confident smile.