One of the most important things we do for our patients is identify and fill cavities. Since any spot of decay can threaten the integrity of an entire tooth, detection is key to preventing a host of potential problems. Lengthy poking and probing sessions with a steel hook have been an acceptable, if not very comfortable, part of dental exams for years. However, such methods of decay detection are only 50 to 75 percent successful. Cavities can hide along the grooves in your teeth or inside biting surfaces. Further, mechanical examination methods are limited to finding only those cavities that are equal to or larger than the probe head. To make the process more comfortable and comprehensive, we use DIAGNOdent, a revolutionary dental laser that finds cavities in the earliest stages.
DIAGNOdent technology uses a laser diode to inspect teeth, comparing reflection wavelength against a healthy baseline wavelength to uncover decay. First, we take a benchmark reading by aiming the laser onto one of your healthy enamel tooth surfaces, shining the laser into all suspect areas. As it pulses into grooves, fissures and cracks, the laser reflects fluorescent light of a specific wavelength which tells Dr. White that there is decay present. Tiny areas of decay, too small to be detected any other way are then repaired before destroying more tooth structure.
Contact us to schedule an appointment or consultation with Dr. Sander I. White, your partner in the quest for a beautiful, healthy smile. Our Broomall dental office delivers exemplary service and distinctive dental care to residents of Broomall, Philadelphia, Delaware County, and surrounding areas.
