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.

When the decay has been present on the tooth structure for a long time and there is more decay, more of the tooth has to be removed to prevent spread of the decay. The use of x-ray machines to find decay between the teeth helps, but minimizing the growth of decay is the goal of every dentist.

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 a tool that detects decay much earlier than other methods. It is a laser that checks the density of the teeth below the grooves without having to use the “poke & stick” method. This allows dentists to place much smaller fillings in the tooth which leaves more of the natural tooth. Smaller fillings last longer than larger ones and having your more of your own tooth structure is far better than having a mouth full of fillings.

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 modern technology has given dentists to help promote and maintain the health of people’s smiles. The ability to be able to correct tooth problems without pain makes the dentist’s job much easier and the patient’s experience more pleasant. Many people avoid going to the dentist because of past unpleasant experiences. These technological advances should help people visit their dentist more regularly and therefore help stop the spread of decay or prevent other dental complications.

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