DIAGNOdent™ Cavity Detector in Traverse City, MI

We cannot cure what we cannot see, so locating hidden decay before it destroys tooth structure (from the inside out) is a major goal for modern dentistry. The extensive use of fluoride in toothpastes and drinking water has made tooth enamel harder and more resistant to decay. This can make diagnosing decay under the surface more difficult because the decay can start through microscopic defects or grooves and pits in the hard surface enamel and easily spread to the softer dentin beneath the surface. Digital X-rays and checking with an explorer are limited in detecting sub surface decay, especially in its early stages. To achieve this, Yancho Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Traverse City, MI always includes state-of-the-art equipment, like the KaVo DIAGNOdent Cavity Detector. The DIAGNOdent allows board-certified dentist, Dr. Phillip Yancho, and his staff hygienists to monitor areas beneath the hard enamel. This laser scans your teeth with a harmless, pain-free red light that searches for hidden decay. 

The DIAGNOdent is useful on adult and baby teeth. It provides instant feedback on the health of a tooth. A pen like probe glides over the tooth and constantly checks for decay. A number scale and an alarm signals the dentist when there are signs of decay hidden from view. This process is completely safe and pain free.

A decayed tooth found in this manner can be restored with a very small filling. The smaller a filling is, the longer it lasts and the less expensive it is to repair, which is a win-win situation for the patient and their teeth. We encourage regular dental check-ups, cleanings and home care.

Early detection of problems minimizes the entire process related to major tooth repair and potential discomfort associated with larger cavities. New technologies move us a giant step forward to helping patients achieve the goal of minimally invasive dentistry. We proudly use the DIAGNOdent in our Traverse City dentist office to catch small problems painlessly, while they are still simple and inexpensive to repair.