Last updated: November 2026
White spots on the teeth are caused by demineralisation of the enamel, for example after fixed braces, in the case of early-stage caries or with so-called chalky teeth (MIH). They do not disappear on their own. With the ICON treatment, these white spots can in many cases be removed without drilling and without the loss of healthy tooth structure: a special resin penetrates the porous areas, seals them from within and evens out the shade of the tooth. The result is visible immediately and the treatment usually takes just one appointment.
Dark discolouration can be removed gently at SP64 in Frankfurt’s Westend with proven concepts such as professional dental cleanings, bleaching or veneers. But which method helps with light discolouration? White spots are often more noticeable than slight discolouration. Veneers or fillings are not always necessary: in many cases the tooth structure can be preserved with the ICON method while at the same time achieving an aesthetic improvement.
How do the white spots on the teeth develop?
There are various causes for these white discolourations, which arise from demineralisation of the enamel and altered light refraction:
Early-stage caries
Caries in its early stage forms in places that are hard to reach, such as the spaces between the teeth. It does not cause cavities or pain, but it does cause unsightly white areas, brought about by the loss of minerals such as calcium and phosphate.
After fixed braces
At the edges of the bonding surfaces of fixed braces, dental care is often particularly demanding. Early-stage caries frequently forms there. The result is white spots as soon as the brackets are removed. With the ICON method this can be corrected quickly and gently, so that the now harmoniously aligned teeth regain an even shade.
MIH (chalky teeth)
In the case of molar incisor hypomineralisation, the so-called chalky teeth that already appear during the change of teeth in childhood, the ICON method is likewise a minimally invasive application that serves dental health and achieves an aesthetic improvement.
Medication
Certain ingredients in medicines can also play a part in the whitish discolouration.
Waiting is not a solution with white spots, as the problem can become more pronounced. Systematic diagnostics and goal-oriented advice are decisive for a harmonious result. Depending on your individual starting situation, we at SP64 in Frankfurt’s Westend may also give preference to options other than the ICON method.
What is behind the ICON treatment?
In the ICON treatment, so-called initial lesions (caries in its early stage) are treated with a low-viscosity resin, the infiltrant, without removing healthy tooth structure in the process.
The procedure in brief:
- Opening the pores: as the surface of the white areas is porous, it is treated with an acidic gel. This opens up the pores.
- Drying: the gel is rinsed off and the white spots are dried.
- Infiltration: a light-curing resin is applied and penetrates the pores by capillary action. In this way it seals the lesion from within.
- Curing: the resin is cured with UV light. The harmoniously blending shade is visible immediately and the progression of the caries is stopped.
When is the ICON method recommended?
For indications such as initial lesions, orthodontic spots and, after careful examination, MIH, a very good result can be achieved with the vestibular ICON treatment.
Advanced caries and inflammation that extends beyond the outer dentine cannot be treated with ICON therapy. In these cases we will suggest other modern solutions to preserve your tooth structure as well as possible.
ICON or a conventional filling? A comparison
In the case of caries in its early stage we recommend an ICON treatment in many cases, as it is particularly substance-preserving: no removal of tooth structure, no drilling, an effective and quick solution. A conventional filling remains the right choice when the caries has already penetrated deeper into the tooth. Diagnostics show which method is suitable.
Frequently asked questions about white spots on the teeth
Do white spots on teeth disappear on their own?
No. The demineralised areas do not regenerate on their own and can even become larger without treatment. It therefore makes sense to have them assessed by a dentist at an early stage.
Does the Icon treatment hurt?
As a rule, no. There is no drilling and no healthy tooth structure is removed, so an anaesthetic is usually not necessary.
Does whitening help against white spots?
Bleaching alone often makes white spots stand out even more, because it lightens the surrounding tooth surface. A combination can be useful: first the ICON infiltration, supplemented if required by professional bleaching. For larger aesthetic corrections, veneers are also an option.
Are white spots on your teeth bothering you? Schedule an appointment at SP64 in Frankfurt’s Westend. We will examine the cause and show you whether the ICON treatment without drilling is an option for you.
