Preventive Dentistry » Tooth Decay Detection

• Tooth Decay is the process of progressive destruction of tooth structure in the presence of plaque and sugar over a period of time.

  The most common places for decay to start in children and adults are between the teeth (and therefore one of the main reasons you should floss daily) and in the little pits and grooves on the chewing surface of the back teeth.

  X-rays can show early decay in between the teeth (the reason why routine x-rays are necessary every two years as per the Faculty of General Practitioners’ (UK) guidelines). The digital x-rays we use reduce radiation exposure by 6-10 times that of conventional x-rays.

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  Decay in pits and grooves are more difficult to spot, mainly because a microscopic hole in the enamel can cause decay in the softer deeper part of the tooth.

  One of the most important breakthroughs in the fight against tooth decay is the Diagnodent. The Diagnodent is a laser scanner that detect early decay so that it can be conservatively stopped and treated with a combination of Laser Disinfection and tooth coloured sealants.

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