Patient Library

Diagnodent

Finding Decay The Easy Way

One of the most important things we do for our patients is to identify and fill cavities. Since any spot of decay can threaten the integrity of an entire tooth, this is key to preventing a host of future problems. Historically, that's why lengthy poking and prodding sessions have been an acceptable, if not very comfortable, part of dental exams. However, such methods of decay detection are only 50% to 75% successful: cavities can hide along fissure lines, or inside biting or occlusal surfaces. Further, mechanical exploratory methods are limited to finding only those cavities that are equal to or larger than the probe head. Enter DIAGNOdent: a revolutionary, thorough means of detecting cavities.

Laser Reflection Spots Imperfection

DIAGNOdent technology uses a laser diode to inspect your teeth, comparing reflection wavelength against a healthy baseline wavelength to uncover decay. First, we take a benchmark reading by aiming the laser onto one of your healthy enamel tooth surfaces, then continue on around, shining the laser into all suspect areas. As it pulses into grooves, fissures and cracks, it reflects fluorescent light of a specific wavelength which is measured by receptors, converted to an acoustic signal, evaluated electronically to reveal a value between one and 100, then displayed on a screen. Any variation from the healthy baseline value stimulates emission of a different wavelength and alerts us to a weakened area of decay. Not surprisingly, this technology quickly and precisely identifies even the tiniest bit of decay. This means shallower, simpler fillings, preserving more tooth structure, and it provides a specific means of monitoring suspicious areas without repeated x-rays.

back to library