New Laser Detects Cavities Overlooked by X-rays

New dental diagnostic tool finds hidden decay years
before it shows up on X-rays

All dentists agree that finding and treating dental decay in its earliest stages can save patients time and money and help them avoid pain.

But even the very best decay detection technology — the dental X-ray — often misses hidden decay. Now there is a new cavity detection system called the DIAGNOdent that proponents say will find decay that x-rays can’t see.

“It’s essentially a laser beam that can see inside the tooth,” says Philadelphia dentist Dr. Leonard Tau. “It scans teeth for hidden decay without any of the radiation associated with X-rays.”

According to Dr. Tau, who is one of the first dentists in the Philadelphia area to use the DIAGNOdent, it’s also much more accurate than conventional x-rays.

“Current research has shown us that the traditional method of looking for decay can miss up to 50% of the decay that is present,” says Dr. Tau.  

The DIAGNOdent works by beaming laser light beneath the hard enamel layer. The beam is reflected back to a handheld device, which looks like a wand. The laser beam makes it possible to measures the decay lurking below the tooth enamel. “I have found it to be dead-on accurate,” says Dr. Tau. “It’s never lied to me.” 

The instrument then emits a series of variable pitched sounds that tell the dentist that there is decay present and to what extent. The DIAGNOdent also gives a numerical readout — anything above 25 is definitely decay.

“Now we can catch and treat cavities early before they turn into bigger and more costly problems that may require root canals,” says Dr. Tau, “and believe me, nobody wants a root canal.”

Warm regards,

Dr. Leonard Tau
The Pennsylvania Center for Dental Excellence