Since the dawn of time (or at least since there have been dentists), dentists have relied on checking people’s smiles for tooth decay by using a sharp pointed instrument to check the biting surface of the tooth. 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 and is larger than it should have been.

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

Technological advances have created new tools that assist the dentist in diagnosing and stopping decay. One new such tool in the dentist’s arsenal is the Diagnodent.

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 advance in dentistry is the “Biolase MD” Laser. This laser gives dentists a tool that they can use to create fillings without novocaine & drills. It also allows the removal of old leaky silver fillings without anesthetic and can help eliminate gum disease without surgery.

These are only two of the tools that modern technology has created that give dentists more ability to help promote and maintain the health of people’s smiles. Being able to correct tooth problems without pain makes the dentist’s job much easier and the patient’s experience more pleasant. Many dental patients avoid going to the dentist because of past unpleasant experiences. Technological advances help people visit their dentist more regularly because there is less fear and therefore help stop the spread of decay or prevent other dental complications.