Since the practice of Dentistry began, dentists have relied on checking people’s teeth for tooth decay by using a pointed instrument to check the biting surface. Unfortunately, this method of checking the biting surface can be very frustrating because when the pointed instrument “sticks”, the decay has probably been on the tooth for a long time.
Decay that has been present on the tooth structure for a long time has likely increased in size and more of the tooth has to be removed to prevent more spread of the decay. The use of x-ray machines to find decay between the teeth is very helpful, but minimizing the growth of decay within the tooth structure is the goal of every dentist and patient.
Advancing technology has created tools that assist the dentist in diagnosing and halting decay. One new piece of technology in the dentist’s arsenal is the Diagnodent laser.
The Diagnodent is an award winning laser that detects decay much sooner than the “poke & stick” method. It checks the density of the teeth below the grooves. This allows the dentist to place much smaller fillings which leaves more of the natural tooth structure intact. Since smaller fillings last longer than larger fillings and since having your own tooth structure is far better than having a mouth full of fillings, this is truly a great piece of technology.
Another new technological advance in dentistry is the “Biolase MD”. This is a laser that dentists can use to create fillings without novocaine & drills. It also allows the removal of old silver fillings without anesthetic and can help eliminate gum disease without surgery.
These are but two tools that improved technology has provided to dentists to help promote and maintain the health of people’s teeth. The ability to be able to fix tooth problems without discomfort makes the dentist’s job much easier and the patient’s experience more pleasant. Many patients avoid going to the dentist because of past unpleasant or painful experiences. These technological advances help people visit their dentist more regularly and therefore help stop the spread of decay or prevent other dental problems.
