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We Find Decay The Easy Way
Click
Here To See A Special Diagnodent Slide Show
 One
of the most important things we do for our patients is to identify and
fill cavities. Since even the smallest spot of decay can threaten the
integrity of the entire tooth, finding and filling cavities is the key
to preventing further problems of all kinds. Historically, that's why
lengthy poking and prodding sessions have been an acceptable, if not
very comfortable, part of typical dental exams. However, many people
don't realize that these methods of decay detection are only 50% to 75%
successful. Cavities often hide along fissure lines, or inside biting
or occlusal surfaces. Further, these mechanical exploratory methods are
limited to finding only those cavities that are equal to or larger than
the probe head. For all these reasons, we've invested in DIAGNOdent:
a revolutionary new, thorough means of detecting cavities, so your exam
can be fast, easy, and nearly imperceptible.
Laser Reflection Spots Imperfection
DIAGNOdent technology uses a simple laser diode to inspect your teeth, comparing
reflection wavelength against a known healthy baseline wavelength to uncover
decay. How? First, we aim the laser onto one of your healthy enamel tooth
surfaces to give us a benchmark reading. Then, we continue on around your
mouth, shining the laser into all suspect areas. As the laser pulses into
grooves, fissures and cracks, it reflects fluorescent light of a specific
wavelength. This light is measured by receptors, converted to an acoustic
signal, evaluated electronically to reveal a value between one and 100, then
displayed on a screen. Anytime the laser encounters a surface that reads
differently than the healthy baseline value, it stimulates emission of fluorescent
light of a different wavelength. A reading of 10-20 indicates some enamel
softening, pointing to a potential problem area that merits close monitoring.
A reading of 21-100 indicates a definite area of decay requiring a filling.
Early Detection, Precise Correction
Using DIAGNOdent technology allows us to catch more areas of decay sooner and
with more precision. Further, it requires no x-rays, and is a relatively
comfortable procedure. Not only can it help prevent the spread of decay,
but catching decay early means fillings required are simpler and shallower,
preserving more of the tooth. This allows us to use minimally invasive filling
procedures, such as drill-free air abrasion. Finally, we're able to objectively
monitor any suspicious areas without repeated x-rays, harm to tissues, or
need for protective measures.
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