White spot lesions: A literature review

Abstract

There has been a paradigm shift from Black′s "extension for prevention" to a minimal intervention approach in the recent time. To diagnose earliest stages of enamel demineralization, accurate and reliable detection of white spot lesions is very important. The newer diagnostic aids would enable the dentist to detect and diagnose early such lesions and direct appropriate preventive measures to promote remineralization and conservation of the tooth substance. A high level of caries experience necessitates preventive strategies which are more cost-effective than surgical intervention and restorative procedures. The goal of modern dentistry is to manage white lesions non-invasively through remineralization in an attempt to prevent disease progression, and to improve strength, esthetics, and function of teeth.