Combined Minimally Invasive Treatment of Teeth Discoloration Caused by Occupational Exposure to Bronze Alloy

Abstract

Recently, dental bleaching has been frequently sought by patients to improve the appearance and color of the teeth. Among various treatment options, in-office bleaching is commonly preferred by patients with severely discolored teeth due to its fast aesthetic results. In addition, other pretreatment methods, such as air-powder polishing, have been reported to increase the efficacy of bleaching treatment. Compared to other causes of tooth discoloration, occupational tooth discoloration caused by bronze alloy and further treatment have not been sufficiently documented in the literature. In the present case report, we explain a case of tooth discoloration following exposure to a bronze alloy and a conservative clinical approach used for the management of tooth discoloration. A 15-year-old male patient who worked in a foundry was presented with tooth discoloration. At the first session, a rubber-cap prophylaxis was performed. After one week, air-powder polishing was used to remove the remaining stains. Finally, at the third session, two cycles of bleaching were performed using hydrogen peroxide gel 35%, each for 20 minutes. Photographs were taken at the end of each session and used for visual evaluation. The final result was aesthetically satisfactory.

Figure 1

Tooth discoloration caused by occupational exposure to copper in a 15-year-old male patient.

Figure 2

Teeth after prophylaxis with pumice powder using a low-speed handpiece at the end of the first appointment.

Figure 3

Teeth after air polishing treatment using air flow handy device with sodium bicarbonate.

Figure 4

Teeth after bleaching with hydrogen peroxide whitening gel at the end of the final appointment.

Figure 5

Teeth after the treatment at the follow-up session 6 months after the initial treatment.