Dental technology is continually evolving as better methods are sought for a variety of tasks. One of these recent developments is the DIAGNOdent, which finds cavities early in their development, helping dentists to save more of a decaying tooth using minimally invasive dental procedures. Since it is relatively new, it is worth exploring more about this device. As a technological tool, the DIAGNOdent finds cavities early enough to help prevent the need for invasive dental procedures such as root canals and extractions. The benefits to the patients are enormous in scope, ranging from financial savings to relaxed visits.
How Using the DIAGNOdent to Find Cavities Early Benefits the Patient
Dentists use this desktop device today in order to catch cavities while they are still small enough to handle easily. Since many patients have an ingrain fear of the dentist chair, the fact that the DIAGNOdent finds cavities early is a true benefit. Not only do patients spend less time having the decay removed, but they also worry less since there’s no need for them to undergo root canals, dental crowns, or extractions. Of course, if a patient avoids going to the dentist for several years, the possibility of finding a large cavity does exist. Even so, since the DIAGNOdent finds cavities early in their development, this desktop device offers patients an easier time at the dental office.
How Does the DIAGNOdent Finds Cavities Early?
The device must first be calibrated to the patient’s tooth structure using its laser beam and a recently cleaned tooth. Next, the teeth are scanned using the specialized laser. The machine measures the amount of fluorescence in decayed teeth, identifying the extent of the problem.
The DIAGNOdent Finds Cavities Early, But How Long Does It Take?
The time it takes for DIAGNOdent to find cavities early is only a few moments from start to finish. Since the device provides a digital readout of the findings, it is easy for your dentist to use. While the DIAGNOdent finds cavities early, some dentists prefer to combine its use with traditional methods of x-rays and visual examinations using dental probes.
Find a DIAGNOdent provider
Several 123Dentist members provide DIAGNOdent and it’s easy to find them with our find a dentist too. See our DIAGNOdent dentists here.
