What is this laser technology?
A laser pulsating light at a specific wavelength is directed onto the tooth. When the incidental light meets a change in the tooth substance, it stimulates a fluorescent light of a different wavelength. This is translated through the hand-piece into an acoustic signal and the wavelength is then electronically evaluated at the laser control unit.
The change in our eating habits: more soft drinks, confectionery and lifestyles, coupled with stronger tooth enamel as a result of fluorides in our water and toothpastes, has led to a change in the type and incidence of tooth decay.
We are getting more decay and deeper below the surface: some 2-3mm within the tooth structure. The usual "tools of trade" for this diagnosis in the past was the dental probe. Research shows that unfortunately, this is only 22% accurate, hence the chance your dentist is missing 78% of possible decays which, at this stage are incipient. Therefore, we combine number of tests (visual, microscope/magnification, laser and x-rays) to enhance early detection of tooth decay.
What are the benefits?
- Improved diagnostic assessment of caries risk to the tooth
- Minimally invasive dentistry
- Superior aesthetics
- Healthy 90% accuracy over other diagnostic systems of caries detection (X-Rays are only 67% accurate and visual inspection is only 57% accurate)
- Tooth substance is preserved
- Best of all, it's totally painless!
This is an important breakthrough in diagnosing dental caries at a microscopic level. The archaic method of sticking a sharp dental probe on the tooth to detect decay is over. Laser technology enables us to detect decay at a microscopic level without repeated exposure to X-Rays.
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