Diagnodent Laser Cavity Detection
Serving Patients from Medford, Klamath Falls, Ashland, Yreka and Central Point
The Diagnodent laser cavity detection system is one of the most important, useful dental technologies to emerge in recent years. Traditional cavity detection technologies such as the x-ray can miss as many as 50 percent of cavities - particularly cavities that are in their early stages when it is most beneficial to detect them. While fluoridation of water and other fluoride exposure hardens teeth, making them less susceptible to cavities, it also makes existing cavities more difficult to detect. Now, with Diagnodent, we can detect even the smallest of cavities early, before significant decay has set in.
How it works
The Diagnodent laser probe sends out a beam of light into the tooth while a sensor in the probe receives light beams as they are reflected back. A healthy tooth should have a fairly consistent translucence, one that does not vary much as light passes through it. The light that is reflected back into the sensor changes significantly when it encounters a cavity. The sensor reads this change, translates the difference into a digital display and audio signal, indicating the presence of a cavity. Numerous tests have proven the Diagnodent system to be 90-plus percent accurate.
It is important to note that x-rays are still very useful in detecting certain kinds of cavities, particularly those in the root structure and in between teeth. Diagnodent is best suited for cavities on the top surfaces of back teeth, where they are most difficult to detect. At Eagle Point Dental we will typically use both detection methods in order to ensure that you are cavity free.
Advantages of early cavity detection
- Less restorative work is necessary - smaller cavities often can be repaired with no drills and no needles
- More of your natural tooth can be preserved
- Your filling will increase the structural integrity of the tooth and resist further decay
- Lower dental cost - early detection means fewer complications and future dental visits
If you live in Southern Oregon and have not recently been checked for cavities, now is the time. At Eagle Point Dental we have the most advanced cavity detection technology available. Please contact us today to arrange and appointment.
800.899.6990
Contact Us
Eagle Point Dental Center for Advanced Dentistry
217 W. Main St
Eagle Point, OR 97524
