05 Mar DIAGNOdent for Early Detection of Caries
Along with the many cosmetic and general dental services available; An important portion of your visit to The Dental Place in Grand Prairie, TX is the search for cavities. Of course, as cosmetic dentists, we have coached for years on strategies for preventing tooth decay. Still, patients of all ages face the very real risk of developing new or recurrent cavities at any stage in life.
The grooves and pits on the surface of the enamel are prime breeding grounds for cavities. Though the anatomy of the teeth can vary from one patient to another, cleaning these areas tends to be challenging for almost everyone. It is virtually impossible to access deep crevices in the enamel with a toothbrush, toothpaste, or mouthwash.
Historically, your dental provider has relied on dental x-rays and visual detection in order to identify tooth decay. Unfortunately, when tooth decay has begun to develop in the grooves and pits, it can be difficult to detect with traditional methods. The result is a cavity that spreads beneath the surface of the enamel. As the cavity progresses, the options for preserving the tooth are significantly decreased.
Still, patients of all ages face the very real risk of developing new or recurrent cavities at any stage in life.
Dr. Robert D. Maxey or Dr. Cecil F. George, Jr. may use the DIAGNOdent cavity detection tool to aid in the clinical examination. DIAGNOdent has also been proven to aid in earlier detection of tooth decay, as compared with traditional methods. Tooth decay, similar to other diseases or infections, can be best treated when detected early.
The DIAGNOdent uses a specific wavelength of light to evaluate the density of the enamel. When the light is projected onto the surface of the enamel, the instrument measures the amount of light that is reflected. Incredibly, the light responds differently when projected onto healthy or unhealthy enamel and the dentist is alerted to the unhealthy areas.
The DIAGNOdent is typically preferred by conservative dentists who appreciate minimally invasive techniques. With the help of a tool such as DIAGNOdent that can identify a cavity in its very earliest stages, much smaller fillings can be placed. Early detection can also prevent the need for crowns and root canals.
The DIAGNOdent has revolutionized the process for detecting cavities. For a high-tech and thorough examination, call our Grand Prairie dental team for an appointment today.