DIAGNOdent
In addition to a clinical examination to check for tooth decay, our doctors may elect to use DIAGNOdent to assist in diagnosis. DIAGNOdent is a completely safe, state-of-the-art laser instrument that scans the grooves of your teeth in search of hidden decay.
Topical Fluoride as well as Fluoride in drinking water has made a huge impact in the strength of the enamel of our teeth. Unfortunately, the inner part of the tooth beneath the enamel does not become as resistant to decay from the Fluoride. The clinical impact of this is that small pits or grooves in the teeth may act as an avenue for bacteria to enter the inner part of the tooth. So what we see is that while the enamel of the tooth is strong, hidden decay can go undetected until it is of significant size.
Routine X-rays and a clinical exam may not detect sub-surface cavities until they are much larger. DIAGNOdent is able to assist in finding this decay at the earliest onset and allow us to do more conservative treatment.
Topical Fluoride as well as Fluoride in drinking water has made a huge impact in the strength of the enamel of our teeth. Unfortunately, the inner part of the tooth beneath the enamel does not become as resistant to decay from the Fluoride. The clinical impact of this is that small pits or grooves in the teeth may act as an avenue for bacteria to enter the inner part of the tooth. So what we see is that while the enamel of the tooth is strong, hidden decay can go undetected until it is of significant size.
Routine X-rays and a clinical exam may not detect sub-surface cavities until they are much larger. DIAGNOdent is able to assist in finding this decay at the earliest onset and allow us to do more conservative treatment.