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How do we detect a cavity?
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Hygienist using DIAGNOdent with patient
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There are many ways to find a cavity. One is simply by looking in the mouth, or feeling with a dental pick or explorer to find sticky spots. Another way is by looking at x-rays to find darkened areas of decay. Now we have yet another method- DIAGNOdent! This new machine is essentially a small red laser that we shine throught the enamel of teeth. The laser measures tooth density on a numeric scale and sounds an alarm if the density falls below the threshhold of "Normal." With DIAGNOdent, Dr Jackson can tell the depth, direction, and severity of decay before taking a drill to the tooth, resulting in more accuracy in filling. if the tooth has a reading below 20, there is not enough breakdown to warrant a filling, but you should consider having sealants placed in order to avoid a filling in the future.
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